September 25, 2024 |Demakes Family YMCA, News, Non-profits, Resources, Youth

The Demakes Family YMCA Renews Commitment to Free Memberships for 7th and 8th Graders

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Extends Memberships to 9^th Graders from Lynn Already Enrolled in the Program

The Demakes Family YMCA is excited to announce the renewal and expansion of its free membership program for 7th and 8th graders in Lynn. Beginning September 25, 2024, the program will not only continue but will also be extended to include 9th graders who are already enrolled in the program, giving them the opportunity to stay engaged with YMCA resources through their freshman year of high school.

The program was unanimously approved by the YMCA of Metro North’s Board of Directors, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to providing young people with access to the YMCA’s wide range of programs, services, and facilities.

“We recognize how critical these years are in a young person’s life,” said Kathleen Walsh, President and CEO of the YMCA of Metro North. “We are happy the board will continue our program to provide 7^th and 8^th graders in Lynn a free membership. Expanding this program to 9th graders ensures that we’re continuing to engage these kids at such a pivotal time, offering them a safe place to grow, learn, and thrive.”

The free membership includes access to the YMCA’s fitness center, gym, rooftop garden, teen drop-in center, healthy teaching kitchen, aquatics center, and more. The Demakes Family YMCA also offers a variety of support services, including free hot meals, behavioral health clinics, and technology resources for its youth and teen members.

“Letting our 9th graders continue with this initiative allows us to deepen our impact and provide continuity as these young people transition into high school. We want to be a consistent and supportive resource for them during this important time in their lives.”

Karina Teixeira, Senior Executive Director of the Demakes Family YMCA

Dave Gravel, Board President of the YMCA of Metro North, also expressed his enthusiasm for the program’s growth. “The YMCA has always been dedicated to the well-being of our community’s youth,” said Gravel. “By extending the program, we’re giving even more kids the opportunity to experience the positive influence of the Y and build a strong foundation for their future.”

Enrollment in the free membership program is open to all 7^th and 8^th living in Lynn and now 9th graders already enrolled in the program. Students must sign up with a parent or guardian and agree to the Y’s code of conduct.

[PHOTO CAPTION] Students (left to right) Carlito Ramirez age 12, Jairany Batista age 13, Jacob Orival age 12 visit the Welcome Center at the Demakes Family YMCA in Lynn. Photo courtesy of Demakes Family YMCA.

About the YMCA of Metro North
The YMCA of Metro North is a leading Massachusetts-based nonprofit organization providing health, fitness, and youth development programs to the nearly 69,000 community members it serves annually. The association awards more than $1,900,000 in financial assistance to members and program participants in summer camp, Y Academy, youth programs, and medical intervention programs. The association instructs 5,000 swimmers and 200 lifeguards in swim safety every year at its locations in Lynn, Melrose, Peabody, Saugus, and Stoneham. Learn more: www.ymcametronorth.org

Th above press release was submitted to us by the Demakes Family YMCA.