The YMCA Boys and Young Men of Color (BYMOC) strategy builds on, and invests in, pathways to success to help boys and young men of color reach their full potential.
Our Approach
BYMOC focuses on youth during critical transition points in their lives, specifically the ages of 11-17. During adolescence, as boys of color mature and become more independent, their existing support systems in homes, schools and communities can often become distant or inaccessible to them, leaving them vulnerable and disconnected.
BYMOC is an intentional effort to shift attitudes and outcomes for the people, environments and systems that influence these young men’s lives. The support and advocacy of caring, reliable adults coupled with purposeful strategies will inspire and transform participants, equipping them with the tools they need to overcome obstacles. We are working to create a culture of care that believes in boys and young men of color and expects to see great things from them.
Our Reach
Embedded in 10,000 communities across the country, YMCAs are uniquely positioned to operationalize this approach through frontline practitioners who are able to directly effect change in a culturally responsive manner. BYMOC is operationalized through a cohort of local YMCAs that will grow to include 100 cities and engage 10,000 boys and young men of color by 2024.
Why We Focus on Boys and Young Men of Color:
- They are twice as likely to grow up in poverty
- They are more likely to live in neighborhoods of concentrated poverty
- They are more likely to fall into poverty as adults, regardless of background
What We Do:
- Education
- College & Career Readiness
- Character Development
- Belonging & Community Building
- Health & Well-Being
CONTACT US
To learn more about the Y’s Boys and Young Men of Color program, please contact our Teen Achievers Director at teenachievers@ymcamke.org.