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

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 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 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.

Volunteer - Chattanooga

Volunteer - Cleveland

 

Questions about volunteering for Y-CAP Chattanooga?

Questions about volunteering for Y-CAP Cleveland?

 

ACTIVITIES

Swimming

Boy edge of pool smiling

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

Y-CAP Boxing

Boxing empowers children with valuable skills, fosters personal growth and promotes a positive outlook on fitness and emotional resilience.

Woodworking

Y-CAP 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 IRONMAN Foundation Clinic at the YMCA

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 and Outdoor Adventures

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

Teen programs
Community garden
Community health
Boxing
Woodshop
Swim lessons

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 »

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

At the YMCA, we believe in working together to achieve an environment that is welcoming for all individuals regardless of age, religion, ability, gender or socioeconomic status. To achieve our mission of empowering all people, the Y is committed to providing a space that embodies our values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.