Girls and Youth Programs
A safe and enriching place for teens during out-of-school time.
Preparing Youth for the Future
We equip youth with the skills and experience to nurture their confidence, relationships and power to be leaders in their lives and communities. Our programs advance systemic change in schools and communities by promoting the value of youths’ lived experiences, ethnic and racial identities, and diverse perspectives.
Our high-quality afterschool and summer programs use culturally responsive, research-based curriculum focused on safety, community and leadership, future-orientation, enrichment, and health.
YWCA Minneapolis is one of the largest providers of out-of-school-time programs in the city. Programming takes place at 14+ public and charter schools, community centers and YWCA locations across the Twin Cities.
Our Programs ↘
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Beacons Learning Centers
As a member of the Minneapolis Beacons Network, we transform public schools into “beacons” of hope and activity by integrating high-quality youth programming into the school day. Our three Beacons Learning Centers are located at Hmong International Academy, Franklin Middle School and South High School. Together, we engage young people as leaders and learners through activities that support their academic, social, and lifework development.
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Contact Plus
Contact Plus is a leadership and comprehensive sex education program for middle school youth. This program ensures access to medically accurate health information and resources, while equipping young people with the skills they need to navigate personal relationships and make informed decisions about their sexual health and beyond. We currently partner with the community to provide this programming at Sanford Middle School, Franklin Middle School, and Venture Academy.
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Girls Inc.
YWCA is the only Minnesota-based affiliate of Girls Inc., a national organization that encourages girls and gender-expansive youth to be “Strong, Smart, and Bold” through direct service and advocacy. Through Girls Inc., youth take risks, discover their inherent strengths, learn to value themselves and create long-lasting mentorship relationships in a pro-girl environment. This data-driven programming helps girls and gender-expansive youth overcome complex gender, economic, and social barriers to their success.
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Strong Fast Fit
Strong Fast Fit is an empowerment-based wellness program offered to youth who identify as Latinx, Native American, African, Hmong, and African American or Black. In this program, youth nurture their holistic wellness in a supportive environment that promotes belonging and connection. Recognizing that a healthy lifestyle looks different for everyone, we explore and hold space for a diverse range of cultural beliefs, practices, and traditions.