Programs 

YMCA programs and services help us to fulfill our mission:

Your YMCA, reflecting its Judeo-Christian heritage, is an association of volunteers, members and staff, open to and serving all, providing programs and services which develop spirit, mind, and body. Financial assistance is available based on need. The YMCA actively seeks to identify and involve those in need.

All YMCA programs are anchored in ideals such as core character values and leadership development, providing programs that serve the needs of the community and enrich individuals.  Programs are grouped under these areas: 

Building strong kids

Pre-school and Head Start - YMCA pre-school builds on a child’s natural desire to learn new things and become self-reliant. It offers a safe, comfortable place where your child will build positive relationships, challenge him in mind and body, and have fun with new activities. 

After school child care and enrichment - Safe, fun and convenient care for your child. Participants have homework and study time, sports and games with staff supervision, special activities, snacks and more. Care is provided at branches and at many local elementary schools. 

Building strong kids from the inside out  - We want to prepare and protect children as they grow up. Our goal is to develop children who are independent, problem solvers, community-minded, and ethical decision-makers. YMCA programs can help develop youth by guiding them with positive, adult role models and involving them in activities and programs which benefit their personal growth and the community as a whole.

Day camp during the summer and school holidays - Camp offers a wonderful outdoor experience in a wholesome environment. Pre- and post-camp is offered (at most locations) at no charge. Traditional, sports, travel, theme, horseback, and weekly adventure camps are just a few offerings. Camp programs promote spiritual awareness, mental development, physical well-being, social growth, and a respect for the environment.

Youth sports - YMCA sports are designed to provide age-appropriate experiences throughout life. Youth sports provides an opportunity for kids of all ages to develop an appreciation of sports, learn fundamental skills and develop leadership skills...all while having fun! The emphasis is on everyone playing, not on winning. Limited score keeping and our ongoing commitment to good sportsmanship round out the program. Coaching is by parents and other adult volunteers who care about the healthy development of all kids. Getting involved as a coach or team parent is a great way to build a better relationship with your own child.

Resident camp - YMCA Camp High Harbour challenges young people to grow emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually.  Located in the northeast Georgia mountains on Lake Burton - or at one of the other sites (Cha-La-Kee, Golden Isles, or Alaska) - Camp High Harbour offers one-week camp sessions for boys and girls ages 7 - 17. General camp activities, specialty camps and a Leaders-In-Training program are offered. All programs and activities are designed with one thing in mind...offering a life-changing camping experience. With its scenic location, quality programming and professional staff, Camp High Harbour is one of the premier summer resident camps in the Southeast.

Building strong families

Health enhancement  - Well-being means a healthy spirit, mind, and body. YMCA health enhancement programs stress the value of prevention through recreation, high quality exercise programs and good health habits. YMCA health and wellness programs encourage active living and personal fulfillment.

Aquatics -   YMCA aquatics programs promote good health through regular exercise for all ages from infant to older adults. Offerings include learn-to-swim classes, swim team, lap swimming, and open/recreational swim. Also available: masters swimming, water aerobics, arthritis and multiple sclerosis exercise, private swim lessons, lifeguard training, and SCUBA classes.

Teen programs - These programs give kids good role models to help them develop cooperation, leadership, respect for the body, good citizenship, and strong character values. Leaders clubs are designed to involve young adults in the YMCA. As part of a volunteer service club, participants are active in training programs, fundraising events, trips and outings, rallies, and special events.

Adult education/Job training - The YMCA offers job and life-skill training to adults who are unemployed or underemployed. We can help with GED preparation, interviewing skills, work readiness, and more. Adult education builds self-sufficiency for young adults through remedial, supplemental and enrichment education.

Family programs - Family programs help people grow as responsible family members. They provide children and their parents with activities that foster understanding, companionship and support. Join us for pool parties, bingo, holiday activities, and other get-togethers.

Adventure Guides (formerly Indian Guides and Indian Princesses) - A parent/child program that promotes family values and relationships. Through meetings, camp outs and other activities, the YMCA emphasizes the vital role parents play in their child’s development.

Building strong communities

Partner With Youth annual campaign -The Partner With Youth annual giving campaign makes Y programs affordable and accessible to all. Families who cannot afford the full price of programs and membershiops can receive financial assistance. Membership and program fees are not used for this purpose. Instead, we rely on charitable contributions from friends like you. In 2005 more than $2.6 million assisted thousands of children, families and older adults through our branches.

If you are willing to share your time and talents with others, we’d like to hear from you! 

Active Older Adults - Different programs stress a three-way approach for seniors, involving health and wellness, social activities and opportunities for volunteerism.

Special Populations - The YMCA offers programs and services to people of all abilities, including those with physical or mental disabilities. Ask us about adaptive sports or the Happy Club, a social group for young adults with developmental disabilities.

International Programs - Every YMCA is part of a worldwide movement that promotes international understanding. The Metro Atlanta YMCA is an international partner with the city of Tbilisi in the Republic of Georgia, and we are developing a YMCA partnership in Costa Rica. Through an exchange of program materials, technical expertise and support for each other’s community, we assist with child, family and community development; education; youth sports; student exchange programs, and emergency response.

The Metro Atlanta YMCA remains a committed advocate for:

• supporting healthy activities and habits
• developing children and teens
• connecting to your community

Get involved and make a difference today!