Teen Programs

At the Y, teens can work on leadership skills, prep for college, play a sport, and give back through programs designed for them. We’re committed to empowering youth around New York City, and many of our teen programs are free for qualified participants.

To learn more about teen programs at the Jamaica YMCA, contact Juliet Beecher, Youth & Family Director at 718-739-6600 x 6012, jbeecher@ymcanyc.org.

Teen Center

Jamaica YMCA provides young people with a safe space to socialize, seek support and participate in activities that build self-esteem, prepare them for higher education and success as an adult. Through the various programs and workshops, our goal is to empower, inspire and teach young people to be leaders. As part of the Youth & Family department, the Teen Center works to build the developmental assets of young people as they transition into adulthood.  Above all, the teen center provides a neutral and non-threatening environment where participants can explore and appreciate each member’s individual diversity. Free to all teens. Must have valid student ID. 

Fridays 3-9 PM

Leaders Club

A nationally recognized core YMCA teen program provides participants with opportunities for leadership training, personal growth, service to others and social development. Teens meet on a weekly basis in small groups, working closely with their peers and an adult advisor on skill and character building activities, as well as planning and organizing projects with an emphasis on educational success, community service and goal-setting. Leaders Club helps more than 1,900 teens find the leader within.

Location: 2nd floor

College and Career Preparation

The Jamaica Y can help teens prepare for life beyond high school. From touring various colleges, to filling out necessary admissions and financial assistance paper work, developing job readiness skills and helping to find internships and job opportunities; the Jamaica Y teen staff can help get teens to take charge of their own future.

Tutoring

The Jamaica YMCA will have tutors available by appointment to provide assistance to students who need some extra help in various subject areas.

Teen Wellness

Teens age 12-17 may use the Fitness Center unaccompanied by an adult on weekdays from 3-6 PM and on  weekends from 2-6 PM. Before using the Fitness Center equipment, teens must participate in a fitness orientation. Sign up for an orientation anytime at the Member Service Desk. Teens 12 and older have access to the basketball gym and fitness center during these times as well. 

Introduction to PowerPoint

Ages 12-15

Using Microsoft PowerPoint software, the presentation is a collection of individual slides that contain information on a topic.

Movie Makers Club

Ages 12-17

The promotion of the art and science of movie making through movie making techniques.

Sewing 101

Ages 13+

Learn how to be creative without spending a lot of money. Sewing 101 teaches you the basics of how to sew from threading, stitching and setting a sewing machine for different features. Step by step, the instructor will introduce you how to read a pattern, cutting and piecing. No sewing experience necessary. Homework may be required to complete the project.

Register

Sports

Teens can learn to play a sport, develop make new friends, and become empowered in youth sports programs such as basketball, soccer and martial arts. Sports programs are not part of the Teen Center. 

See Classes

Swim

Learn the basics of swim: front paddle stroke, side and back paddle, and water safety skills taught in a fun, relaxed way.

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Summer Camps

YMCA teen camps are designed to immerse campers in fun activities that keep them active, learning, and engaged during the summer months. Teen campers participate in hands-on programming geared towards building self-confidence as well as activities designed to engage teens in developing educational and career goals. Campers go on field trips, and participate in swimming, dancing, singing, sports and more!

Find a Camp