Our Cause

The Y is a powerful association of men, women and children of all ages, from all walks of life, joined together by a shared passion to strengthen the foundation of our community. We focus our work in three key areas, because nurturing the potential of kids, helping people live healthier, and supporting our neighbors are fundamental to strengthening communities. 

Our Areas of Focus

The Y is a cause-driven organization that is for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Y is for everyone. Our programs, services and initiatives welcome and embrace newcomers, enable kids to realize their potential, help prepare teens for college, offer ways for families to connect and spend time together, and provide a broader community for seniors to be healthy in mind, body and spirit. And that's just the beginning of how the Y strengthens community.

Youth Development

We believe that all kids deserve the opportunities to discover who they are and what they can achieve. That’s why, through the Y, youth today are cultivating the values, skills and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, better health and educational achievement. Check out our before and after school programs, youth sports and discovery programs, day camp and more!

Everyone deserves the chance to learn, grow and thrive. At the YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region, we want youth and teens to have the opportunity to reach their full potential. Time at the Y spent playing, learning and socializing helps kids of all ages to grow in character and learn values. They will form relationships that lead to positive behavior, better health and educational achievement.

Child Watch

At the Y, we believe in nurturing the entire family. Children ages 6 weeks to 6 years (who are members of the Y) are welcomed into our Child Watch with opportunities to learn, explore and play. Our Child Watch staff attendants are fully trained, competent and caring individuals. Each attendant is certified in CPR for the Professional Caregiver, AED Procedures for the Professional Caregiver, and First Aid Procedures. All skills are re-certified annually.

Before and After School Care

The Y's Before and After School Child Care program provides children ages 5-12 with opportunities for growth and development outside of their school day through activities and adventures that are child-centered and fun! We provide a safe, encouraging environment that promotes positive self-esteem and image, life skills, teamwork, leadership, creativity and education support.

Day Camp

YMCA Day Camp is one of the oldest and most trusted camping programs in the country. Our Day Camp provides fun, child-centered activities and opportunities for learning through discovery. Y Day Camps challenge children to grow in imagination, creativity, self-directed initiative and leadership.

Overnight Camp at Camp Shady Brook

At Camp Shady Brook, kids ages 6 to 17 have the opportunity to explore nature, discover new talents, try different activities such as archery and horseback riding, gain independence, and make lasting friendships and memories.

Swim, Sports and Play

The Y is the starting point for many youth to learn about staying active and developing lifelong healthy habits. While engaging in youth sports, children learn the Y's four core values: caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

Teen Enrichment and Leadership

At the Y, teens learn values and positive behaviors while exploring their unique talents and interests. The Southeast Y, in conjunction with the 21st Century Grant Program, strives to be a positive place for teens to engage in service learning and recreational activities, to help them become leaders of their community and to enhance their leadership skills. Whether teens come to the Y looking to explore their interests or for support in navigating challenges, the Y is committed to nurturing teens to their full potential.

Gymnastics and Dance

Participating in gymnastics and dance helps kids develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime. They will become more physically active and stay fit and healthy while building strength and improving flexibility, speed, balance, coordination and discipline.

Social Responsibility

We are a powerful association of men, women and children joined together by a shared commitment to invest in our kids, our health and our neighbors. Thanks to the generosity of those who donate to our Annual Support Campaign, the Y has never turned anyone away due to an inability to pay.

Whether developing skills or emotional well-being, welcoming and connecting diverse populations or advocating for healthier communities, the Y fosters the care and respect all people need and deserve.

Ways to Give

Our Strength Is In Community

The Y is a nonprofit like no other. In 10,000 neighborhoods across the nation, we have the presence and partnerships to not just promise but deliver positive change.

The Y is community centered. We listen and respond to challenges that keep individuals and the community from reaching their full potential. The Y responds with services and support that help people become self-reliant, productive and connected. Some of our critical focus areas include military outreach, teen development, swimming, water safety and child care, including a robust offering of day camps, before and after school programs and senior programs.

Among our daily programs and initiatives that benefit people of all ages, the YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region opened its facilities at no charge to frontline responders and families evacuated to refresh and rejuvenate during the devastating Waldo Canyon and Black Forest Fires that consumed hundreds of homes in our area. Our Day Care staff also welcomed children of these same families to programs and activities that provided them with a sense of normalcy and ways to connect with other children during healthy activities.