YMCAs Help NJ Youth Reach Their Full Potential After the School Bell Rings

TRENTON, N.J. - Aug. 25, 2026 - PRLog -- As back-to-school season begins, the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance (YMCA Alliance), which represents 30 YMCA associations and 82 branches across the state, remains dedicated to nurturing the full potential of all New Jersey youth and teens through affordable sports, activities and enrichment programs.

Children who participate in extracurricular activities benefit from improvements in social development, self-esteem and mental health, according to a recent WebMD article. Programs that involve physical activity provide additional benefits, including better attention and memory, reduced risk of depression and improvements in blood pressure and aerobic fitness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

"Every YMCA in New Jersey is committed to helping our youth discover and develop new interests and skills," said President and CEO of the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance Julie Gallanty. "Back-to-school season is the ideal time to enroll children in a new activity to ensure they keep growing and learning outside of the classroom."

New School Year, New Interests, New Connections

The YMCA Alliance has a measurable impact on the development of youth and teens in New Jersey. In 2025, more than 40,000 youth participated in swim lessons, and 395 middle and high schoolers participated in a civic engagement program.

As the school year begins, parents are encouraged to learn about the diverse offerings available at their local Y. Families moving to a new town and children interested in trying a new activity can explore a variety of options at NJ YMCAs, including:

• Basketball
• Cheer
• Dance
• Fencing
• Gymnastics
• Swim Lessons
• Tao Kwon Do
• Track & Field
• And more!

Teens interested in developing skills for post-secondary education and young adulthood can enroll in programs such as Model United Nations, Youth & Government and Teen Leadership & Development. These offerings are specifically designed to instill positive values and behaviors that contribute to the creation of a confident and engaged young adult population.

Improving Access Through Affordability

Through state funding, financial support from donors and community partnerships, the YMCA Alliance allows more children to learn new skills, discover new interests and make new social connections. Improved access for all youth across the Garden State is evidence of the Alliance's commitment to youth development, a core part of the non-profit's mission.

"As the cost of youth sports and other programs continues to increase, many families are struggling to give their children the opportunity to participate in activities outside of the classroom," Gallanty said. "But we believe every child and teenager deserves the chance to find out what inspires them, make new friends and develop new skills – regardless of their background or income level."

Youth Development Is a Year-Round Initiative

Building a stronger and brighter future for New Jersey youth does not start or end with the school bell. The YMCA Alliance and its 30 independent YMCA associations offer affordable, accessible year-round programs that nurture the curiosity, discovery and connection necessary to unlock the full potential of every child.

For more information on YMCA youth and teen programs across New Jersey, visit the YMCA Alliance website at https://www.njymca.org/main/youth-development/.

About the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance
The YMCA Alliance is a statewide nonprofit organization leading a coalition of 30 independent YMCA associations. Through public policy, statewide initiatives, strategic partnerships, and service delivery, the YMCA Alliance fosters a greater ability for YMCAs, community partners and leaders across the state to impact families, improve community health and advance equity. Our collective voice strengthens local communities while promoting youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. For more information, visit www.njymca.org.