Youth Development | YMCA of Greater Cleveland

Youth Development Programs

As a youth-oriented organization, we believe that all kids have amazing potential. The values and skills learned early are vital building blocks for life, and young people deserve an opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. From the youngest in our childcare programs to the teens in our leadership development initiatives, the Y's youth development programs give kids and teens a safe place to belong, build confidence and learn positive behaviors grounded in our core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Our impact by the numbers

The YMCA believes that every child has potential. Serving children in the Greater Cleveland region, the Y’s youth programs help kids learn critical life skills, discover their passions, and grow in confidence.

Youth Programming

Illustration of kids in a circle with an adult

In 2021, we served 4,015 children in youth programming which is driven by our values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. Thousands of kids have learned to swim with us. Our youth sports programs teach children teamwork and sportsmanship. We have basketball and football leagues, and many branches offer Junior Cavs. Some branches offer We Run This City, a youth running program, which we provide through several school districts.

Learn More

Child Care

Illustration of a school with swimming pool in front.

With more than 20 locations for preschool and licensed before-and-after school care, we provide YMCA's nationally acclaimed youth development programming for children and teens across the region.

Learn More

Day Camps

Illustration of kids sitting "crisscross" with an adult

Our sports, arts and summer day camps are a "home away from home" where kids laugh, learn, explore, and grow, all while creating memories and friendships that last a lifetime.

Learn More

Learn more about youth development programs

Youth Programs