YMCA updates board on expanded after-school program and 13-year-old membership initiative

Representatives from the YMCA told the McDowell County Schools Board that their after-school and summer programs have deepened a 22-year partnership with the district and are expanding services under a 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant.

Mr. Bramblett, representing the YMCA, described the organization—s long-term work with the district and introduced Jessie Massey, the YMCA—s teen program director. Massey said the grant (21st Century) enabled the YMCA to extend middle-school programming and add a high-school program, offering activities from school dismissal until 6:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, with bus transportation for many students.

"We prioritize connections," Massey said, describing Power Hour (daily academics), interest clubs and partnerships with community groups such as Centro Unido and Pivot Point of Western North Carolina. She framed the programming as a response to mental-health challenges affecting teens, pandemic and storm recovery, and food insecurity; she said the program operates on a three-year grant cycle.

The YMCA also announced a donor-funded initiative that gives a YMCA health-and-wellness membership to every public-school child in McDowell County when they turn 13, with middle-school principals assisting enrollment. Board members praised the transportation provision and the membership program as ways to increase participation and support student well-being.

Board members asked practical questions about start times and logistics; YMCA representatives confirmed a 3:30 p.m. program start and invited board members to observe programs and a legislative tour event planned for Nov. 14.