Program areas at Young Mens Christian Association of San Francisco
Grants and Other Human Services - The YMCA of San Francisco believes in giving back and supporting our neighbors. We have been listening and responding to our community's most critical needs for more than 170 years. Through day camp, resident camp, outdoor education and environmental stewardship opportunities we address community needs and provide exciting and rewarding camping experiences and environmental outdoor education. All programs foster personal growth and an awareness of nature, and integrate our four core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility throughout our five proven principles of youth development. Camps provide a wholesome learning opportunity filled with fun and exercise, where youth build camaraderie and an appreciation of nature. Young adults with camping experience develop leadership and social skills by serving as counselors-in-training under the supervision of professional camp counselors. YMCA of San Francisco camps address critical needs of underserved populations in the bay area by providing healthy leadership experiences.
Child and Youth Development - Our YMCA is committed to nurturing the potential of every child and teen. We believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. That's why we help young people cultivate the values, skills and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, better health, and educational achievement. The Y's early childhood development programs model and support the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Our programs foster growth and cognitive development, help children develop moral and ethical behavior, self-esteem, and leadership skills, and provide children with a safe, nurturing place to play and grow. Character development is an integral part of YMCA early childhood development programs and services and as a result, at a very early age, children and youth establish the foundation needed to grow into responsible members of their families and communities and ultimately our future leaders. YMCA licensed early childhood development sites serve more than 2,000 children and their families every year.
Health and Fitness Services - The Y is a leading voice on health and well-being. We bring families closer together, encourage good health and foster connections through fitness, sports, fun, and shared interests for people of all ages, incomes, and abilities. The YMCA of San Francisco provides a wide range of wellness programs focused on helping individuals develop key character values. These programs include individual and group-exercise, youth sports, adult sports, rehabilitation, wellness education, aquatics, and youth fitness. Each year, more than 60,000 men, women, seniors, youth, and teens participate in our programs and services and enhance their health and well-being. Through the generosity of YMCA donors, financial assistance is available making programs accessible to all in the community.