Address & Contacts
Chattanooga, TN 37408
Today's Hours
Contacts
Address & Contacts
Chattanooga, TN 37408
Today's Hours
Y-CAP: The YMCA Community Action Project
What is Y-CAP?
Y-CAP is an early intervention and prevention program for kids ages 10-14 who need after school care and mentorship because of:
- Low grades
- Behavior management problems
- Anger management problems
- Acting out at home
Y-CAP is based on christian beliefs and has touched the lives of more than 3,200 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 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
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
Social Development
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
Educational Success
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 two different site locations:
Volunteer with Y-CAP
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.
Questions about volunteering for Y-CAP Chattanooga?
Contact Marcus Kyle, Program Director
Questions about volunteering for Y-CAP Cleveland?
Contact Cason Ingram, Program Director
ACTIVITIES
Swimming
Swimming
Swim lessons teach essential water safety skills while supporting physical, mental and social development. They also build confidence and encourage a lifelong love of movement and learning.
Boxing
Boxing
Boxing empowers children with valuable skills, fosters personal growth and promotes a positive outlook on fitness and emotional resilience.
Woodworking
Woodworking
Woodworking helps youth build practical skills, creativity and confidence. It nurtures their abilities and prepares them for future educational and recreational opportunities.
Volunteering
Volunteering
Youth volunteering builds leadership, confidence and responsibility while connecting young people to their communities and real-world experience.
Swim Ready
Swim Ready
Thanks to the IRONMAN Foundation for partnering with Y-CAP to empower youth through water safety. The foundation leads Y-CAP participants in special swim sessions through its Swim Ready program.
Pottery
Pottery
Pottery helps build creativity, patience and fine motor skills through hands-on expression. It also offers a calming outlet that supports focus, stress relief and overall well-being.
Field Trips
Field Trips
Field trips bring learning to life by connecting classroom concepts to real-world experiences. They also encourage curiosity, social development and a deeper understanding of the world.
Branch Amenities
Y-CAP Impact
Join the Y
Increase energy, decrease stress, prevent illness, maintain a healthy weight, find personal balance, and enjoy quality time with family and friends... at the Y! We combine spirit, mind, and body in an integrated approach to well-being that goes beyond just fitness.
Learn More »