We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to discover who they are and all that they can achieve. Since 1982, our Achievers program has encouraged young people of color to build character and confidence, explore diverse college and career options, and learn from inspiring role models.
YMCA ACHIEVERS
College readiness cultivates success.
Preparing for life after high school can be both exciting and challenging. Our Achievers program ensures that all youth -- regardless of their race, household income, or family education history -- have the proper tools to access college and succeed in the workforce.
Through a multifaceted approach, we deliver a high-quality college and career readiness program with measurable outcomes. Achievers supports students of color in reaching their goals, which results in significant long-term gains, including improved social-emotional learning, reduced risky behaviors, and thriving into adulthood.
Our aim is to help youth:
- Raise their academic standards
- Develop a positive sense of self
- Explore diverse college and career options
- Connect to professionals who inspire them to reach their full potential
ACHIEVE MORE
Be inspired to pursue your education and career goals. We'll help you create a road map for the future and prepare for success.
BECOME A ROLE MODEL
Give your time and make a difference. As an Adult Achiever, you'll encourage students by sharing your professional experience.
MAKE AN IMPACT
Your generosity makes an enduring impact. Join our collective efforts as a sponsor, donor, or community partner.
If you have questions or would like additional information about how you can get involved, please contact our Teen Achievers Director.
YMCA Achievers is a college readiness, career exploration, and life preparation program for high school students in the Milwaukee area. The Achievers program focuses on minority, first-generation, and low-income students, but like the national Y movement, it's also multi-racial and gender-balanced.
Through an engaging framework of core program components, The Five Pillars, and the support of Adult Achievers professional mentorship, students gain self-confidence, life skills, character, and motivation.
THE FIVE PILLARS
When integrated, the Five Pillars collectively prepare youth for life beyond high school. They reset expectations by moving students from a belief that college or career attainment is inaccessible to a belief that they have what it takes to go further in life.
- ACADEMICS
Youth have access to high-quality enrichment opportunities and are equipped with the skills needed to be accepted into and excel in college. - COLLEGE KNOWLEDGE
Students gain the knowledge and support necessary to complete the college admissions process. Youth feel they have options for their future and they understand how to secure financial assistance and select the right school for them. - POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS
Teens receive support from an adult who has gone through the college process, but also have the opportunity to build positive relationships with other students who have college aspirations. - LIFE SKILLS
Youth have the non-cognitive skills that predict long-term success in life, including goal-directed behavior, self-management, personal responsibility, and the ability to work as a team. - POSITIVE IDENTITY
Youth have a positive vision for the future and believe they can be successful. Teens identify as successful students in the present and future, setting and working toward goals with support from peers and adults in their lives.
Teen Achievers meet regularly to participate in a variety of college prep and leadership development activities that include:
- Workshops on SAT/ACT preparation
- Study skills/time management
- Interviewing techniques
- Financial literacy
- Team-building opportunities
- Community service and learning projects
Students pick one meeting weekly meeting spot for the duration of the program. Participants must also attend the monthly Saturday Summit. In addition, teens may have the opportunity to attend college tours, workplace visits, guests speakers, and networking events.
A key benefit of Achievers is the relationship formed between Adult Achievers and Teen Achievers. By utilizing the skills and talents of professionals of color, the program brings inspiration and positive influences into the students' lives.
Adult Achievers are recognized for their successful careers and also their desire to give back to the community. We engage a wide range of adult role models who support youth development through workshops and presentations, mentorship, chaperoning, and committee work.
Like all volunteers, Adult Achievers must submit an application and complete a background check. If you are interested in volunteering or would like additional information, please contact our Teen Achievers Director.
Quentin Mease began The Young Black Achievers of Houston, Texas in 1967. By 1971, the Harlem YMCA launched the very first YMCA Black Achievers Salute Gala and Teen Program. The program's new format quickly spread to branches and associations nationwide, including Milwaukee.
The YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee has been involved with the Achievers movement since 1982, which means our program has one of the longest and most successful tenures in the country.