We have to have a focus on Youth Development. We have to raise up future leaders. One of the ways that I find this to be achieved is through programming. There are two things that I have realized this past week that are two imperative to having successful programming. The first being the power of advertisement. The second is having a diverse amount of activities are important to have. The power of advertising is real.

The first week we did programming there were not any kids who attended, but with a week of advertising we had five children attend the program at one of our local YMCA Branches. We distributed fliers, made social media posts, and had personal conversations with families as much as possible. The most important thing about advertising is creating excitement around the programming!

I have learned so much about the YMCA and the programs that they run for Youth Development. This past week I had the pleasure of visiting the Delaware YMCA camp for a day, and visiting their branch. Similar to the other branches I work with, they have a day camp, before and after care program, kids’ time, child care, and teen programming. Not only do YMCA’s have a lot of programming, but they are so diverse. They cover a wide range of ages, needs, and educational opportunities.

That’s how Youth Development is most effective is through advertising and diversity. We need to raise up leaders and keep our children safe. I love being associated with a nonprofit organization that holds Youth Development near their hearts, and is always striving for more in that area!