Grow, Lead & Thrive
Blessing Bags Youth Service Project - Carver and Young YMCA
Boys and young men of color often face unique barriers. Through the YMCA of Metro Atlanta’s Boys & Young Men of Color initiative, we offer intentional support during critical adolescent years (ages 11–17), empowering young people to build identity, confidence, and resilience.
Our programs for boys and young men of color combine consistent mentorship and purposeful programming to foster educational success, leadership, and community belonging.
Key Strategies for Success
- Education: Encouraging a positive mindset toward learning and preparing for academic achievement.
- College & Career Readiness: Equipping youth with work-based learning, financial knowledge, and academic planning.
- Character Development: Reinforcing YMCA core values—caring, honesty, respect, responsibility—through enriching experiences
- Belonging & Community: Cultivating peer and adult relationships, positive cultural identity, and civic engagement.
- Health & Wellness: Encouraging healthy habits and combatting disparities in food access and chronic health.
Programs
REACH
Ages: Middle School
REACH is designed to empower middle and high school students—especially boys and young men of color—to excel academically, build leadership skills, and connect to new opportunities. Through workshops, mentoring, and community projects, participants gain the tools and confidence to thrive.
Key Features:
- Academic Success: Homework help, tutoring, and study skills support.
- Personalized Mentoring: Connection with supportive adult mentors and peer networks.
- Life Skills Workshops: Sessions on leadership, character development, and personal growth.
- Career & College Readiness: Exposure to a variety of post-secondary pathways and career opportunities.
- Social-Emotional Learning: Develop confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of identity.
- Fun & Enrichment: Field trips, community service, and engaging activities that foster belonging.
REACH is more than an afterschool program—it’s a safe space where teens build community, embrace their potential, and become tomorrow’s leaders.
Location: Andrew & Walter Young Family YMCA
Contact Young Family Y for more information.
Voice of A Man
Ages: 11-18
The Voice of a Man program is designed to empower middle and high school teens to become confident, community-minded leaders. Through mentorship, workshops, and engaging activities, participants build essential skills for academic success, leadership, and personal growth.
Key Features:
- Academic Support - Focus on success in school.
- Mentorship — Build supportive relationships with caring adults and peers.
- College Readiness — Prepare for academic success and explore post-secondary pathways.
- Career Exploration & Exposure — Learn about career opportunities and develop skills for success.
- Leadership & Character Building — Develop a strong sense of identity and positive values, with a focus on social-emotional learning.
- Connectivity — Build a sense of belonging and cultural pride. Experience fun trips, activities, and new opportunities.
Location: The Villages at Carver Family YMCA, Andrew & Walter Young Family YMCA, & J.M. Tull-Gwinnett Family YMCA
Learn more and register
Support Our Work
By supporting our Boys and Young Men of Color, you help create equitable opportunities and safe spaces for boys and young men of color. Consider donating through the African American Circle of Giving and become part of this transformative journey.
Contact Us
Questions? Contact your local YMCA location for more information.