October 15th, 2024

YMCA OF GREATER HOUSTON GEARS UP FOR A SUMMER OF FUN

HOUSTON (June 3, 2022) – The YMCA of Greater Houston is ready to be the go-to spot of summer fun for local families. Through a variety of exciting programs, classes and services, the organization remains focused on positive and impactful ways to unite the community. Whether it be making new friends through classes, events and clubs or gathering at the pool to cool off, there is a place for everyone at the YMCA this summer. As a purpose-driven organization, the YMCA of Greater Houston’s programming strives to spark real change in youth and provide high-quality development opportunities from infancy through graduation and beyond.

“We are looking forward to welcoming the community of all ages and backgrounds to join us for a safe and unforgettable summer,” says Stephen Ives, president and CEO, YMCA of Greater Houston. “With diverse activities to enjoy, the YMCA remains committed in its mission to bring people together, build strong community relationships, and most of all, create summer memories that will last a lifetime.”

YMCA summer programming highlights include:

  • Summer Day Camps – The YMCA offers a variety of camp options, including Discovery Camps, Wonder Camps and Adventure Camps, and activities for youth and teens at over 20 Greater Houston YMCA and partner locations. Activities may include sports and outdoor games, specialty STEM activities, hiking, canoeing, service learning, creative and performing arts, archery, engineering, nature exploration and more. Summer day camps provide opportunities for youth to make new friends, build independence and confidence and shape lifetime memories.
  • Camp Cullen – Along the shores of Lake Livingston, the 500-acre overnight summer camp offers programming filled with enriching outdoor adventure that includes dozens of activities and specialty tracks, including horseback riding, water sports and archery. All camp sessions are one-week for children ages 7-17, with a two-week option available for Teen Adventure and Leadership Camps. A week at Camp Cullen provides campers with epic adventures, epic fun and epic memories that will last a lifetime.
  • Y Teen L.I.F.E – Y Teen L.I.F.E (Leadership, Inspiration, Fellowship, Education) is a club-based program that engages middle and high school age students and provides opportunities to set goals and grow as a community member and individual. Clubs include the Leaders Club: Leadership Development & Service Learning and YMCA Texas Model United Nations: Global Engagement. The YMCA also offers a Leaders in Training (LIT) program beginning in June, an 8-week summer leadership development and workforce readiness program designed for teens ages 12-15.
  • Swim Programs – With one of the top swim programs in the country, the YMCA provides swim lessons for infants, youth, teens and adults to learn basic water safety skills and techniques. Group, semi-private and private classes are available to ensure success for each person’s learning style. At select locations, the YMCA swim team program focuses on the development of swimming skills, goal setting, sportsmanship and teamwork. Programs are offered year-round for individuals ages 5 and up.
  • Go For Green Swim Safety Initiative – Go for Green is an initiative within the YMCA of Greater Houston’s summer Day Camp program that ensures all participants have access to the training necessary to be safe in and around water. A green level swimmer is a confident swimmer and much less likely to drown. Day camp participants take part in a daily swim test while in the care of the YMCA. If they don’t initially pass the swim test, they take part in lessons throughout the week so they can “Go for Green”! Recently, Dick’s Sporting Goods gifted $50,000 to fund the YMCA’s 2022 Go For Green program, ensuring that approximately 1,200 campers learn essential swimming skills.
  • Youth Sports – The YMCA offers youth sports such as basketball, flag football, soccer, baseball, volleyball and more. The Y offers sports for kids ages 3-17, starting with the Tiny Tots program for ages 3-5. Youth sports at the Y allow children to reach their full potential and create a healthy outlet to gain new skills, develop a sense of team and connect with positive role models.

Safety is a top priority at each YMCA location, and the welfare of youth and adults resides at the forefront of the organization’s programming. All YMCA staff members learn and practice Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) regularly to ensure the security of members, guests and staff. Training drills include fire, disturbance, hostile, medical, missing person, weather, utilities, vehicle and wildlife.

To learn more about the YMCA’s summer programs, classes, services and membership information, please visit www.ymcahouston.org/programs.

About YMCA of Greater Houston 

Founded in 1886, today the Y remains committed to the health of more than half a million people grow and thrive through programs and services at our locations across Greater Houston. Strengthening community is our cause. Together, we connect active, engaged Greater Houston Area residents to build a better us.

October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

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