Investment will support after-school and summer programming, keeping kids safe, engaged and learning
On April 17, The Children’s Trust Board of Directors approved funding recommendations for its Youth Development initiative, its largest investment area. More than 140 programs, including YMCA of South Florida, were selected during a competitive Request for Proposals and review process. These funds will help directly support children and families through after-school and summer programming in Miami-Dade County.
Trust-funded Youth Development providers offer high-quality programming for children and youth in kindergarten through 12th grade, as well as young adults involved in the child welfare or juvenile justice systems and/or living with disabilities. The Trust is investing over $76 million to allow for the increased cost of programming as well as expanding programming to existing and new providers. As well as providing nutritional meals and safe spaces for children and youth, Trust-funded after-school and summer camp programs focus on homework and learning, while also requiring physical activity and encouraging health and social and emotional wellness.
“The Children’s Trust is proud to invest in an extensive network of youth development providers that offer an array of dynamic after-school and summer programming to keep our youth learning, active, and engaged in the world around them,” said President & CEO of The Children’s Trust James R. Haj. “We look forward to partnering with these organizations to ensure our children have every chance to succeed and their parents know their kids are cared for while at work.”
This particular investment into YMCA of South Florida will expand the reach of affordable after-school and summer program offerings into even more program locations across Miami-Dade County. The YMCA’s programs have been changing the lives of children and families in South Florida for over 100 years. The Y has evolved to accommodate the growing number of working families, regardless of economic status, and has embraced the philosophy that everyone benefits when youth of all cultural backgrounds and abilities work together.
The Y Experience takes afterschool programming above and beyond the quality standard using evidenced-based components:
- Project Based Learning /STEAM
- YFit/ Outdoor Activities
- Social Skills using various curricula
- Literacy Activities
- Family Involvement Initiatives
- Academic enrichment through homework help and technology
“The YMCA of South Florida is honored to be a funded childcare provider of The Children’s Trust. Since its inception, the Y has been a partner of The Children’s Trust, working collaboratively to serve youth and families in the most at-risk communities of Miami-Dade County.” said YMCA of South Florida President & CEO Sheryl Woods. “This funding award will assist The Y to further strengthen the foundations of community by providing pertinent, quality, out-of-school-time programs to more participants and families in need of academic and enrichment support.”
To learn more about the YMCA of South Florida’s Youth Development programming and more, visit ymcasouthflorida.org/programs.
