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YMCA Achievers
A road map for a bright future.
Since 1967, YMCA Teen Achievers Programs across the country have empowered teens to develop a positive sense of self, and to inspire their pursuit of education and career goals. The YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit is proud to offer both national and local YMCA programs that empower youth in grades 8–12 so they can shape the communities of tomorrow, today.
Achievers Prepares Teens to Succeed
The Teen Achievers program is a career and college prep program for high schoolers that prepares students to succeed in life. It provides real-life experiences and exposure to career pathways and college opportunities.
Program Details
- Ages: Grades 8–12
- Schedule: Students meet weekly after school and select Saturdays for trips and workshops
- Location: Participating partner schools and the Boll Family YMCA
- Email for Info: myy@ymcadetroit.org
How it Works
The core program consists of Five Pillars –
- Academics
- College Knowledge
- Positive Relationships
- Life Skills
- Positive Identity
Students also receive individual and group mental health support throughout the school year. The program ends with opportunities for summer internships and even permanent employment.
Cost of the Achievers Program
The Achievers program can be free! Scholarships are available by contacting the Achievers Senior Program Director by November 30, 2025. Use the form on this page to contact us about scholarships or email myy@ymcadetroit.org.
A Career Pathways Program
YMCA Achievers is a career pathways program that provides college preparation, career development and mentorship to high school age youth (14-18). Funding provided by the Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation.
Programs and Activities for Teens
College Tours
Exclusive only to students currently enrolled in the Achievers Program.
Students visit local colleges as a part of the program, getting to know campuses, programs, opportunities, and career paths available to them.
SAT/ACT Test Prep
Exclusive only to students currently enrolled in the Achievers Program.
Students learn standardized test-taking strategies and information for the SAT and ACT.
Y Careerwise
Summer Youth Employment in partnership with Grow Detroit’s Young Talent
The purpose of Y Careerwise is to provide young adults ages 14-24 with real world work experiences. Our aim is to provide relevant learning opportunities that help young adults build solid basic work skills and with develop realistic career plans.
Young Men Thriving
Exclusive only to students currently enrolled in the Achievers Program.
Our Young Men Thriving program provides teens with mentorship, enrichment, and opportunities that open doors for their future.
Youth In Government
Youth In Government is a national program of the Y that immerses teens in experiential civic engagement and to, quite literally, practice democracy. The program culminates with teens serving as delegates at their state conference, debating bills on the floor of the legislature.
Changemakers
YMCA of the USA is calling on high school students (grades 9-12) in all 50 states, DC, and Puerto Rico to propose a YMCA Changemakers Project that addresses a critical issue or need in their communities.
Stronger Teens, Stronger Detroit
When teens succeed, families are stronger, neighborhoods thrive, and our city moves forward. That’s why our Achievers program matters—not only to the young people we serve, but to everyone who cares about Detroit’s future.
Supporting Teen Achievers as a partner or donor helps provide:
- Caring mentors who meet with teens weekly.
- Academic and career guidance that prepares teens for success.
- Leadership opportunities that inspire young people to give back to their communities.
Every teen deserves someone in his corner.
At the Y, we’re making sure they have just that. Together, we can open doors that many teens never thought possible.
Contact the Metro Youth YMCA
Have questions about Achievers or want more details about partner and sponsorship opportunities? Contact us using the form below or email myy@ymcadetroit.org.