Black Youth in Action

For Black youth, age 13 – 18

Want to hang out and have fun with other black teens, be a Y member, and  make connections that can help with future dreams and goals?

The Black Youth in Action (BYA) Program offers youth a collective space focused on health, wellness, and belonging. Black youth in Vermont have limited opportunities to engage in positive spaces with other Black youth and adults. This program provides that opportunity while creating healthy life habits and discipline to contribute to future success. BYA provides social connection, mentorship, and community service activities for teens, along with opportunities to explore flexible pathways after high school. There is no cost to participants.

Click here to watch a short video about Black Youth in Action!

Benefits of BYA program:

– FREE Y membership
– Positive mentor relationships
– Improve mental and physical health
– Community involvement
– Field trips to local sports and rec centers (some of the activities we’ve done so far: basketball, paintball, laser tag, rock climbing, self-defense)
– Access to healthy meals to promote wellness 

What’s required of BYA participants?

– Contract, with expectations and accountability
– Mandatory monthly meetings
– Community service (volunteering)
– Abide by YMCA Policies and Code of Conduct

Think you’d like to be part of this amazing group? Click the button below to apply. Drop off your application at the Y on 298 College Street in Burlington, attn: Jervaughn Scales.

Apply

BYA is facilitated by Jervaughn Scales

Jervaughn joined the Y’s fitness team in 2015 after a celebrated 20 year professional basketball career overseas. While playing professional basketball, he gained valuable experience in coaching and motivating individuals towards their goals. As a mentor, Jervaughn enjoys working with the Black Youth in Action group, to help all teens realize and reach their full potential.

Would you like to donate to BYA and programs like it that help the Y fulfill it’s mission to strengthen community?

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