"Sarah has always been very close to her mom. The idea of getting involved with Y-Guides was a way for us to do something together. I definitely feel that we have grown closer as father/daughter as a result of this program."
- Fred
Make Healthy Choices
Positive adult role models are vital to a child's development. Y-Guides is a father/child program which helps direct a child toward making healthy choices that will enhance their spirit, mind and body. Y-Guides members learn the character values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and faith; core values of the YMCA.
Build Relationships
The Y-Guides program helps to foster companionship and understanding and set a foundation for a positive, lifelong relationship between a father and child. Emphasis is placed on the vital role that a Dad plays in the growth and development of their children. A framework is provided for a father and child to spend enjoyable, constructive and quality time together through age appropriate event planning. Participants also have the opportunity to meet and interact with other families with children the same age.
Develop Skills
Learning critical life skills is important in every child's development. Skills such as teamwork, independence, cooperation and goal setting are cornerstones of the Y-Guides program. Children emerge with a greater sense of self-esteem and personal worth.
Become a Servant Leader
Y-Guides values the opportunity to help teach your children the importance of serving others. An important and unique opportunity within the program is dads and children working together to develop and enjoy volunteer leadership skills. Participating together in events such as Park Cleanup Days, winter coat drives, stocking food pantries and collecting school supplies are examples of opportunities we create for a child to learn to be a servant leader who positively impacts their community.
Membership registration is based on the child's grade:
| Program |
|
| Braves & Princesses |
Starting at age 5 |
| Trailblazers |
4th year participants |
| Hawkeyes |
5th year participants or new members starting at age 9 |