Thousands of youth set to experience a season of adventure, growth and connection through engaging programs and resources
With summer around the corner, the YMCA of Greater Houston is gearing up to provide the ultimate summer experience for youth through a wide range of activities designed for all ages. From youth sports and swim lessons to themed day camps and overnight adventures at Camp Cullen, the YMCA’s programming is designed to keep kids active, engaged and supported in a safe and welcoming environment. As a trusted nonprofit, the YMCA remains a community-centered space for families seeking positive experiences and is ready to welcome thousands of children and teens to build skills and create meaningful memories that last a lifetime.
“Whether it’s learning new skills, making lifelong friends, or finding a sense of belonging, the YMCA of Greater Houston’s summer programming has something for every child,” said Stephen Ives, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Houston. “By empowering kids to explore, grow, and connect, we’re continuing to build a community where everyone has the chance to thrive, gain confidence, explore new interests and discover who they are.”
YMCA summer programming offers structured opportunities for youth to set goals, foster creativity, and strengthen leadership and teamwork skills while having fun in a supportive environment. Summer programming highlights include:
- Summer Day Camps – YMCA day camps provide a mix of indoor and outdoor activities in a group setting across locations in the Greater Houston area. Core activities offered at all camps include STEM, creative and performing arts, water safety skills, team building, service learning, and meditation and mindfulness practices. Themed weeks, academic enrichment, nature exploration, field trips, literacy, culturally relevant experiences, and a variety of sports and outdoor games ensure campers stay engaged and inspired.
- YMCA Camp Cullen – For 50 adventure-filled years, YMCA Camp Cullen, located on 500 acres of scenic land near Trinity, Texas, has provided youth ages 7 – 17 with unforgettable experiences rooted in nature, exploration, and growth. Campers will discover new talents, build lifelong friendships, and gain confidence through activities including horseback riding, climbing towers, arts and crafts, water sports, zip lines, archery, ropes courses, and teen leadership adventures. This fall, the YMCA will celebrate Camp Cullen’s 50th Anniversary with special events honoring its legacy and long-lasting impact.
- Y Teen L.I.F.E – Y Teen L.I.F.E. (Leadership, Inspiration, Fellowship and Education) helps middle and high school-age students foster a culture of service, teaching them how to set goals and share their voice. The program also provides opportunities for youth to realize who they are and what they are capable of achieving, while being supported by caring adult mentors. Students ages 13 – 15 will have the opportunity to participate in Leaders In Training (LIT) for an eight-week, hands-on leadership and workforce readiness experience.
- Swim Programs – Swimming teaches confidence, endurance, teamwork and life-saving skills. Group and private sim lessons are offered to all ages and skill levels, along with competitive swim teams. Additionally, the YMCA’s Safety Around Water (SAW) program helps ensure that children learn essential water safety skills and develop confidence in and around water. With 88% of child drownings occurring while at least one adult is present, the YMCA is launching its “Phones Down, Eyes Up” public service campaign to raise awareness about the importance of undistracted adult supervision near water and how your eyes can save lives.
- Youth Sports – For children and teens ages 3 – 17, youth sports such as flag football, soccer, volleyball, baseball and basketball help build excitement and passion around recreational and competitive programs. Specialized summer sports camps and clinics offered during the summer give youth the opportunity to deepen their skills and explore new sports through focused, age-appropriate instruction. Led by trained coaches and volunteers, youth sports offer flexible scheduling options for busy families and promote positive values like sportsmanship.
The YMCA of Greater Houston is dedicated to helping every child and teen grow and connect year-round. Through sports, camps, swim lessons and leadership experiences, the YMCA continues to be a trusted space for opportunity, personal development and community. More than a place, the YMCA is where achievement, connection, and belonging come together. This summer, families are encouraged to discover enriching programs designed to inspire growth and spark adventure.
For more information about how to register for the YMCA of Greater Houston’s summer programs, classes, services and membership information, visit www.ymcahouston.org and follow the organization on Facebook @YMCAHouston and Instagram @YMCAHouston.