Youth Activities
Everyday LeadershipThe YMCA is committed to youth development because we believe in nurturing the potential of every child. By providing a wide range of programs—from sports and arts to leadership and education—the Y helps young people develop essential life skills, build confidence, and form positive relationships.
Camps
Speciality camps and programs provide kids with a chance to try something new, explore their community, make new friends, or develop a skill. Check out our seasonal program guides for upcoming youth camps and activities.
Sports
Sports are a great way to introduce your child to teamwork, sportsmanship, and the importance of healthy living. Y sports instill the values of honesty, caring, respect, and responsibility, in a fun, supportive atmosphere.
Before, After, and No School Day Programs
At the YMCA, we want to make sure every child feels welcome and has a safe space to learn and grow. We offer both before and after care for school age children as well as programs and childcare when area schools are closed.
Everyday Leadership
Everyday Leadership is a collaborative effort created by the Treasure Valley Family YMCA to provide 4th-6th grade students in Boise and Caldwell with the skills and confidence they need to lead in their schools and reach their potential. The program started in 2013 at Grace Jordan Elementary and is currently in 11 schools in Boise and Caldwell including:
Grace Jordan Elementary, Garfield Elementary, Morley Nelson Elementary, Taft Elementary, Koelsch Elementary, Wilson Elementary, Washington Elementary (Caldwell), Hawthorne Elementary, Hillcrest Elementary, Jefferson Elementary, Whitney Elementary
Achieving Results
Through the Everyday Leadership program, families and teachers have noted improvements in participating students. This includes:
• 87% of participating students improved their grades above a 3.5 GPA
• All students increased their grades above a 2.5 GPA
• Behavioral incidences declined by 65%
• Families reported participants adopting leadership skills
• Educators report that participants positively influencing the behavior of other students
Opportunity for Change
Everyday Leadership is currently sponsored by Boise Sunrise Rotary Club, Boise Metro Rotary Club, and Caldwell Rotary Club as well as many individual donors, keeping this program free for our Treasure Valley families. The Everyday Leadership schools are currently sponsored by Boise Sunrise Rotary Club, Boise Metro Rotary Club, and Caldwell Rotary Club. Donations and sponsorships from businesses, civic organizations, foundations, and individuals help sustain this important program.
PROGRAM ACTIVITIES
- Weekly lunch or afterschool meetings between October and April
- Lessons and activities on leadership, teamwork, communication, goal-setting, conflict resolution, and decision making
- Student-directed community service projects
- Additional leadership opportunities for returning students
- Mid-year and end of year celebration
A GREAT NEED IN IDAHO
- Low-income youth are 19x more likely to drop out of school compared to their peers.
- 40-60% of Treasure Valley students come from low-income families.
- Idaho’s 2021 high school graduation rate fell to 80.1%, and remains one of the lowest in the nation
- Only 42% of Idaho’s workforce has a post-high school certificate or degree
- High school dropouts make up more than 80% of the incarcerated population, according to a study from Northeastern University.
Program Developed in Partnership with:
If you know a school in the Treasure Valley that may be interested in an Everyday Leadership club, you’re interested in donating, or you want to learn more, please email communityprograms@ymcatvidaho.org.