TheCommunityYMCA We build strong kids, strong families, strong communities.

The Community YMCA Teen Leadership programs create the opportunity for youth to participate in model government, learn more about themselves and develop positive skills before entering their college years.

We achieve these goals through the following programs:

• Leaders Club
• Youth & Government
• Model United Nations
• Teen Achievers
• Girls Circle

Each of these programs welcomes diverse, age-appropriate students and works in concert with our local school districts and their calendar year. 

Leaders Club

The Community YMCA Leaders Club works with middle and high school students to focus on developing positive life skills and leadership qualities by connecting the club to community service projects with local non-profit organizations.  In addition to volunteering, the Club conducts exercises in democratic decision-making, assessing and understanding community needs, understanding cultural diversity and team building projects.  The Club meets weekly during the school year.

Youth & Government

The YMCA’s Youth & Government program affords high school students the opportunity to write their own legislative bill and debate it in the actual New Jersey Senate/House Chambers in Trenton.  Our program participants will spend one weekend a year with other teen teams from throughout New Jersey to debate and secure passage of their proposed bill which culminates with a visit to the Chambers in Trenton, where students will present their bills.

Model United Nations (Model UN)

The Model United Nations program affords high school students the opportunity to research and debate issues of international importance.  Each year our Model UN Club will have the privilege of debating other teams on their selected issues.  The importance of this program is the students gaining an appreciation of international affairs and cultural differences.  Each year, The Community YMCA’s Model UN program culminates at the YMCA Model United Nations Conference, held in January in Hershey, PA.

Teen Achievers

The Community YMCA Teen Achievers program is open to all adolescents ages 12-17.  Groups meet locally at a school and/or community center.  The program offers practical guidance about preparing for college, provides students the opportunity to improve academically and develop a successful career path.  The Achievers Program provides the participating teens with mentoring, assistance with college readiness and support for a successful school to work transitions. Participating students are provided an opportunity to connect with fellow peers and adults who care about their success, participate in skill building workshops and seminars, and experience Career Days and visits to local colleges for campus tours. For more information and a list of meeting locations, click here.

Girls Circle *new program*

Girls Circle encourages the development of strength, courage, confidence, honesty and communication skills in girls, ages 12-18. The goal of the program is to enhance girls’ abilities so they are able to take full advantage of their talents, academic interests, career pursuits, and potential for healthy relationships. Groups meet weekly in 8- or 10-week sessions at four community locations.

To register your teen or for more information on program fees and a list of participating schools and locations, please call 732.671.5505, ext. 16 or 30.

Downloads: 

Teen Achievers - A College Bound Club

Teen Leadership Programs at Red Bank Y