At YMCA, we believe that every young person should have access to nurturing, non-judgemental and safe learning environments so they can develop their interests and fulfil their individual potential.

“Our projects are designed to build trust, positive relationships and social responsibility to empower young people in a way that will help them make better life decisions in adulthood.”

– Steffen Benbow, Operations Manager for Children, Youth and Family Triangle_icon_red_grad

Services for children, young people and families

We recognise and celebrate how every child is different, and our varied menu of programmes works to ensure that children, young people and families from all backgrounds can grow and learn together.

Our Scholarship scheme ensures that financial support is available for families who are unable to cover costs of our children’s programmes so every young person can have access to services that will award them the best start in life.

Apply for Scholarship

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Key staff members

Asma Iqbal

Y’s Girls Programme Coordinator

Steffen Benbow

Operations Manager for Children, Youth & Families

Amy_Oakes_Meet_the_Team

Amy Oakes

YMCA Sports and Family Service Manager

Work With Us

Do you have a passion for working with children or young people?

Whether you’re a qualified Day Camps Leader, enjoy sharing your love of sports with children or you’re a parent looking to volunteer your cooking skills at our next Adventure Guides trip – we would love to hear from you! Find out what volunteer and job vacancies are available at YMCA by visiting our Careers page.

We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Become a YMCA employee

Developmental assets for children

YMCA of Silicon Valley developed a model for the development of the child based around 41 developmental assets.

This pioneering work has had a considerable impact on our work with vulnerable young people in Children’s Residential Care. Although only in the earliest stages of what we hope will continue to be one of our signature programmes for some time to come, we have already seen our young people grow and thrive beyond our expectations. 

The achievements of the children who live with us are a great source of pride. 

READ THE FULL RESEARCH ONLINE