Black Achievers Program
Nationally, YMCA Black Achievers is an intentional effort to create equity in education, as well as the workplace, by motivating African American/ Black and other minority youth to develop and pursue higher educational and career goals.
Founded in 1985, the YMCA of Central Kentucky Black Achievers provides support to help youth:
Gain exposure in diverse career opportunities
Engage with positive role models whose success and knowledge provide inspiration
Receive mentorship and post-secondary support from college/career experts
Raise academic standards and improve college/career readiness
Set and pursue higher educational goals
Build character, receive social emotional support and develop a positive sense of self
Enhance cultural competency skills
Participate in community service opportunities
Black Achievers meets every second and fourth Saturday beginning Aug. 24, 2024, 9 a.m. until 12 noon, at Bluegrass Community and Technical College, 500 Newtown Pike, unless otherwise announced. Program sessions include guest speakers, networking, career clusters, and field trips. Be sure to check the schedule for more details.
- Academic Support
- College and Career tours
- Community & Civic Engagement
- Cultural Enrichment
- Financial Literacy
- Life and Social Skills
- Professional Networking
- Senior Scholarships/ Cash Awards
A key benefit of Black Achievers is the relationship formed between volunteers and youth during career clusters. Clusters are led by dedicated business and community volunteers who support the program by giving their time and talent in the following areas:
- Middle School Cluster (6-8 grades)
- Arts, Media, & Entertainment
- Business & Entrepreneurship
- Education and Human Services
- Engineering & Technology
- Healthcare
- Parent Cluster
Achievers who participate and remain in good standing receive a free YMCA youth membership (or discounted family membership). Achievers are expected to attend 75% of Saturday sessions. Opportunities to make up for missed sessions will be available.
Cost of the program is $50 per year. Financial assistance is available. Please find more details at (add hyperlink).
Register for the 2024-2025 Program Year
If you would like to volunteer your time and experience with the YMCA Black Achievers, please complete our volunteer interest form. A staff member will follow up with you as soon as possible. For any other information, please contact us at blackachievers@ymcacky.org.
