Teen Leadership

All kids have great potential. At the Y, we help them set and achieve their personal and educational goals. They gain confidence as they recognize the Y as a place where they belong and can feel comfortable exploring new interests and passions. Through leadership and academic enrichment programs, we make sure that every child has an opportunity to envision a positive future, and to take an active role in strengthening the community.

DAILY SCHEDULE FOR SWEDISHAMERICAN RIVERFRONT YMCA

Teen Calendar

TEEN LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS

Achievers is for students in 7th - 12th grade and takes place at the SwedishAmerican Riverfront YMCA. Y Achievers is a national academic achievement and career development initiative of the YMCA of the USA with a purpose to help youth set and pursue high educational and career goals, resulting in graduation and acceptance to an institution of higher learning.

5 Pillars of Achievers:

  • Academics
  • College Knowledge
  • Positive Relationships
  • Life Skills
  • Positive Identity
Programming Includes:
  • Tutoring and mentoring support (Bro Code & Sister Circle)
  • Leadership development opportunities through Youth & Government
  • Career exploration and empowerment workshops
  • College and scholarship application tips and practice
  • Community involvement and service projects
  • Friendship, fellowship and much more!

Participants have the opportunity to receive an individual free YMCA membership upon completing service hours and participation in leadership & mentorship program components.



Teen REACH (Responsibility, Education, Achievement, Caring, and Hope) is a comprehensive youth development initiative that provides after school program services to high-risk youth. It is funded in part by the state of Illinois and in partnership with Rockford Public Schools through the ARP Esser funds.  The Y provides a safe environment with caring adult role models that work with youth to increase academic achievement and develop the life skills necessary for future success including high school graduation. 

Programming Includes:

  • Improving educational performance 
  • Life skills education 
  • Parental involvement 
  • Recreation, sports, cultural and artistic activities 
  • Adult mentors 
  • Service-Learning
LOCATION | HOURS 

Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd,
1829 N. Rockton Ave. (directly across from West Middle School)

Elementary Hours on school days (1st-5th grade): 2pm-6pm
Middle School & High School Hours on school days (6th-12th grade): 4pm-8pm
Hours on non-school days and summer: Monday - Friday 10am-6pm

Registration can take place in advance or on-site. For more information, contact teenreach@rockriverymca.org​



PROGRAM PARTNERS