Y-CAP: The YMCA Community Action Project

 

What is Y-CAP?

Y-CAP is an intense early intervention and prevention program for kids ages 10-14 who need help turning their lives around because of:

  • Poor grades
  • Behavior management problems
  • Anger management problems 
  • Acting out at home
  • Hanging out with the wrong poeple

Y-CAP is based on christian beliefs and has touched the lives of more than 2,000 children and their families since 1998. Children are referred to us either through the juvenile court system or the school system. Each student and their family receives a personalized treatment plan designed to address their educational, behavioral, and spiritual needs. Students attend after school and during school breaks including summer programming and special field trips. All activities are designed to improve their behavior and outlook on life. The positive effects touch the whole family. 

 

What the STATISTICS say about Y-CAP:

 

School Attendance

100% of Y-CAP students have better attendance in school. 

"Y-CAP has made a huge impact on my students and my own family over the years."

- Cindy Kean, Hamilton County Teacher

Social Development

a group of Y-CAP kids posing for a picture in the juvenile court

98% of Y-CAP students have no more juvenile court offenses. 

"I know where these children are going to end up if we don't get them straightened out now. Y-CAP is a game changer."

- Judge Rob Philyaw, Hamilton County Juvenile Court

Educational Success

Jacob Peck Student of the Week for Y-CAP

93% of Y-CAP students have improved their grades one letter or more. 

"Y-CAP has helped me improve my grades and gain more confidence in myself."

- Ja'toni Evans, Y-CAP participant 

 

Y-CAP hosts three different site locations:

 

Volunteer with Y-CAP today and be part of something life-changing.

As a volunteer, you’ll play a vital role in helping these students rediscover their potential—whether it's by tutoring, mentoring, leading activities, or simply showing up to listen. Every hour you give can plant seeds of change that last a lifetime.

To volunteer, contact Gerald Few, Program Director, at gfew@ymcachattanooga.org

Branch Amenities

Teen programs
Community garden
Community health
Boxing
Woodshop
Swim lessons

ACTIVITIES

Swimming

Boy edge of pool smiling

Swim lessons offer a comprehensive range of physical, mental, and social benefits for youth. They not only teach essential water safety skills but also promote overall well-being, confidence and a positive attitude towards physical activity and learning.

Woodworking

YCAP kids woodworking

Woodworking offers youth a rewarding blend of practical skill development, creative expression and personal growth. It nurtures their abilities, builds confidence and prepares them for future endeavors, making it a valuable activity for both educational and recreational purposes.

Boxing

Boxing YCAP kids smiling with Roger

Boxing empowers youth with valuable skills, fosters personal growth, and promotes a positive outlook on physical fitness and mental resilience. It cultivates a sense of responsibility, respect, and determination that can benefit them in various aspects of their lives.

Swim Ready

Swim Ready IRONMAN Foundation Clinic at the YMCA

Thanks to the IRONMAN Foundation for partnering with YCAP to empower our youth through water safety. The foundation leads YCAP participants through special water safety swim sessions through the program Swim Ready, powered by the IRONMAN Foundation. This longstanding partnership helps increase confidence in the water for our YCAP youth.

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Our Mission: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. 

Our Mission to Inclusion: At the YMCA, we strongly believe we should all work together toward achieving a member environment that is welcoming for individuals, regardless of age, religion, abilities, gender or socioeconomic status. To achieve our mission of empowering all people to reach their full potential, the Y is committed to providing an environment that embodies our core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.