Exciting Youth Workforce Development Initiative Transforms Savannah’s Summer!

Exciting Youth Workforce Development in Savannah!

Hey there, Savannah! Buckle up because some fantastic news just rolled in about how our local youth are stepping up and taking charge this summer! Thanks to a generous grant from Bank of America, the YMCA of Coastal Georgia has been able to create amazing job opportunities for young people right here in our community.

A Summer Like No Other

This year, the YMCA was on a mission to meet critical community needs, all while empowering local teens. They took a bold leap by hiring and training dozens of local youth, giving them vital roles as lifeguards and summer childcare workers. It’s not just any summer; it’s a summer filled with opportunities for these youngsters, and it’s shaping their futures like never before!

Thanks to the funding from Bank of America, the YMCA was able to enhance its summer programs, ensuring that families in Savannah had access to safe, high-quality childcare and aquatics services during this busy season. This initiative went beyond just putting money in teens’ pockets; it was all about providing them with meaningful experiences and valuable job skills that they’ll carry with them for years to come!

Building a Brighter Future

Joel Smoker, the proud CEO of the YMCA of Coastal Georgia, expressed just how significant this program is. “This program was about more than just summer jobs,” he said. “It was about investing in the future of our community by giving young people the tools they need to succeed.” With the solid backing from Bank of America, the YMCA has been able to not only strengthen its programs but also create a safe and enriching environment for families. Sounds like a win-win, right?

Bank of America Steps Up

Patrick O’Neil, the president of Bank of America Savannah, echoed similar sentiments as he spoke about this partnership. “Partnering with YMCA of Coastal Georgia is part of our commitment to creating sustainable change in Savannah,” he remarked. This speaks volumes about how investing in local nonprofits truly helps build thriving communities for the long haul!

A Summer of Success in Aquatics

The impact of this grant couldn’t be overlooked, especially in the YMCA’s aquatics programs. Camille Stone, the Aquatics Cabinet Lead, proudly stated, “We had one of our best summers yet!” She explained how the newly trained lifeguards were enthusiastic about their roles, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone who visited the YMCA pools. Now, that’s what we call a true community effort!

Empowering the Next Generation

We’re talking numbers here! In 2024 alone, the YMCA managed to hire 92 teens, with 37 of those being rehires from previous summers! In total, that brings the number of youth employed by the YMCA this year to an impressive 129. Meketa Brown, the Advancement Director for the YMCA of Coastal Georgia, couldn’t be prouder of these figures, emphasizing how the support from Bank of America Foundation creates life-changing opportunities for young people.

Looking Ahead

So as we reflect on the success of this youth workforce development initiative, it’s clear as day: community partnerships and strategic investments can truly change lives. The YMCA of Coastal Georgia is all set to continue creating opportunities for our local youth, nurturing the next generation, and ensuring a stronger, more resilient future for Savannah. And who knows, next summer might just be even better!

That’s all for now, Savannah! Stay tuned for more wonderful updates about how our community is thriving!