Young Men Thriving

Empowering Boys and Young Men of Color to Reach Their Potential

Providing mentorship, support, and strategies to inspire growth and success

Young Men Thriving is a transformative initiative dedicated to empowering boys and young men of color, helping them realize their potential and shape their futures. By removing systemic barriers and providing relevant services, support systems, and nurturing environments, the  Strategy ensures better outcomes for youth ages 11-17, fostering confidence and long-term growth.

With the guidance of supportive mentors and actionable strategies, we strive to inspire resilience and equip participants with the skills to navigate life’s challenges. Together, we are building a strong, uplifting community that celebrates their strengths and opens doors to endless opportunities.

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Empowering Teens of Color to Succeed in School, Work, and Life

The YMCA’s BYMOC Strategy Helps Teens of Color Succeed in School, Work, and Life through Proven Programs.

Education

  • Strengthens students’ motivation for learning
  • Instills confidence in their abilities
  • Equips them with skills for academic success
BYMOC Winners

College & Career Readiness

  • Prepares youth for college and career success
  • Builds pathways to higher education and meaningful employment
  • Offers hands-on learning, financial literacy, skill-building, and career planning

Character Development

  • Fosters experiences that build social-emotional skills
  • Promotes character growth through Y values: honesty, caring, respect, and responsibility

Belonging/Community Building

  • Helps young people build strong relationships with peers and mentors
  • Fosters positive cultural and self-identity
  • Strengthens community connections and civic engagement
  • Encourages healthy fitness and eating habits
  • Promotes lifestyle choices that prevent chronic conditions
  • Supports efforts to combat food insecurity

Real Impact. Real Stories.

How BYMOC at the YMCA is Making an Impact

“The YMCA has opened up a lot of opportunities for me.”

– Deuce

Empowering Boys and Young Men of Color for a Brighter Future

Supporting Education, Health, and Career Readiness to Break the Cycle of Poverty

  • Strategic Goals

    Our goal: improve opportunities in 100 cities by 2025, boosting workforce development and a more open economy.

    • 70% of BYMOC will engage in nurturing, culturally-responsive learning
    • 70% will improve grades, reduce suspensions, and boost attendance
    • 100% will complete social/emotional self-assessments
    • By 9th grade, they’ll access career pathways

  • Strategic Focus

    We focus on boys and young men of color for three key reasons:

    • They are twice as likely to grow up in poverty.
    • They are more likely to live in areas of concentrated poverty.
    • They face a higher likelihood of fa ling into poverty as adults, regardless of background.

  • Strategic Impact

    BYMOC aims to impact young lives in five key areas:

    • Belonging and Community Building
    • Health and Wellbeing
    • Character Development
    • Education
    • College and Career Readiness

Become Part of the Solution

Your Generosity Makes Our Good Work Possible

Your donation can help create lasting change for boys and young men of color. By supporting mentorship, education, and career readiness programs, you’ll directly impact their futures, empowering them to overcome challenges and build brighter, more successful lives. Join us in being part of the solution.

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YMCA of Greater Montgomery