Supporting Youth & Families

Supporting Youth & Families

The Family YMCA works alongside schools and community partners to create safe, supportive environments where children and teens can learn, grow, and thrive.

Helping Children Thrive and Families Stay Supported

Through afterschool care, summer programs, and youth enrichment opportunities, families have reliable options that support working parents while giving young people meaningful experiences that build confidence, connection, and a sense of belonging.

These partnerships make it possible for children and teens to access safe spaces, caring adults, and high-quality programs that strengthen families and support long-term success.

Partnership with Los Alamos Public Schools

Through a formal partnership with Los Alamos Public Schools (LAPS), the YMCA provides on-site childcare at elementary schools, offering families convenient access to safe, enriching afterschool care.

This collaboration allows students to remain in a familiar environment while participating in structured programs that support their development beyond the classroom.

LAPS also provides space for YMCA Summer Camp, aligning with the school district’s summer programming and creating a more seamless experience for families.

As part of this partnership, LAPS employees receive YMCA memberships, serving approximately 240 staff annually, so educators and school staff have access to programs that support their own health and well-being.

Strengthening Programs Through Community Support

The YMCA is grateful for the support of the Los Alamos Community Foundation, whose investment helps strengthen programs and expand impact.

In 2024, Los Alamos Community Foundation funding supported staff attendance at a communications and marketing conference in San Diego. Staff returned with new ideas, renewed energy, and practical strategies that are already improving how the YMCA communicates with families and shares its impact across the community.

Strong communication helps families find the programs they need, understand what the YMCA offers, and feel connected to the opportunities available for children and teens.

Featured Partners

Safe Spaces for Kids and Working Families

When families know their children are in a safe, enriching environment, they are better able to work, manage responsibilities, and stay connected to the support systems they need.

For children and teens, these programs offer more than supervision. They provide opportunities to build friendships, try new things, gain confidence, and experience a strong sense of belonging.

These partnerships help ensure that support for youth and families is not occasional or temporary, it is consistent, local, and rooted in community.