Youth Development

Since North Carolina Ys launched grant-funded work to support teen mental health last March, the approach has varied across the state with some Ys launching teen programs for the first time and others expanding opportunities for teens. Our Ys meet regularly to share best practices, challenges and wins.

Our Ys across the state have been incorporating mental health resources and support as part of the Mental Health Community Care Model via the Alliance's statewide funding to expand or launch teen programming with an intentional focus on mental health. 

Five students from three high schools Onslow County participated in the Connecting the Dots: Teen Mental Health First Aid Ambassador’s Retreat in Wilmington June 20-22 at UNC-Wilmington as part of the New River YMCA’s work around supporting teen mental health through the Alliance’s grant. 

The Alliance has continued to provide our YMCAs with scholarships to access Hello Insight’s tools for

The NC Alliance of YMCAs, in partnership with the NC Center for Afterschool Programs (NC CAP) and the NC Recreation and Parks Association (NCRPA), convened 26 North Carolina childcare stakeholders on  April 10,

The YMCA of the Sandhills hosted a screening of the film Resilience: The Biology of Stress & The Science of Hope and a community storytelling session at its  Saleeby Family YMCA branch earlier this month in collaboration with the Harnett County Partnership for Children, the Resilience Initiative, the Sal

The NC Alliance of YMCAs is proud to announce its participation in Mental Health Awareness Month throughout the month of May. This month is a crucial opportunity to break down stigmas surrounding mental health, promote understanding and provide resources to those in need.

Mental Health Awareness Month

Mental Health Awareness Month