Outreach Programs

“So the Children may be Well”

History of the YMCA Black Achievers:

The Black Achievers Program’s goals and structure can be traced to its inception by Quentin R. Mease in 1967 at the South Central YMCA in Houston, Texas.  The program was designed to motivate African-American teens to academic and career success. In 1971, New York YMCA financial consultant and volunteer Dr. Leo B. Marsh challenged the Harlem Branch to develop a new motivational program.  After visiting the Houston program, Marsh implemented the Black Achievers Program format we know today.

The Black Achievers Program operates at the very core of the YMCA’s mission.  It is a program where everybody wins and it deserves everyone’s support.  The leadership of Mr. Mease and Dr. Marsh was very important to the whole YMCA movement.  The Black Achievers Program is an outstanding example of their collective genius for making the dream of interracial cooperation become a reality.  The bold experiment has provided African-American, Hispanic/Latino-Americans and all youth of color with needed role models and mentors.  May the dream continue to flourish.

Transcribed from the Black Achievers Program Manual for 2008 Y Black Achievers National Conference, New Orleans

YMCA of East Tennessee Outreach Program:

The YMCA of East Tennessee Outreach Program is a strategic initiative designed to help middle and high school students set and pursue high educational and career goals.  The Outreach Program adheres to the Mission Statement of the YMCA of East Tennessee, “To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.” 

Outreach Programs:

Community Action Program (Y-CAP) – A unique ministry to high-risk children and their families.  The program focus is on young boys and girls who are still living at home and have been referred by Juvenile Court, the Department of Children’s Services and Knox County Schools.  It offers tutoring, recreation, social activities and individual/group meetings relating to character development.

Junior Y-Achievers – This program is designed to motivate, encourage and inspire teens to pursue educational and career goals.  The Junior Achievers also participate in workshops, community service projects, fun activities, trips and fundraising events throughout the year.

Y-Achievers – This program works with high school students in the pursuit of higher education and career goals.  It consist of components aimed at helping youth with college enrollment, ACT/SAT preparations, job search/interview training and providing workshops facilitated by professionals within the community.  These youth also participate in fun activities, trips and fundraising events throughout the year.  In addition, this program hosts an Annual College Tour during Spring Break for high school students.

Y-Achievers Goals:

• Raise academic standards of youth
• Assist youth in gaining acceptance to institutions of higher learning
• Expose youth to diverse career options
• Provide adult role models to inspire youth to set and achieve personal and professional goals
• Help youth develop a positive sense of self
• Build character and develop positive assets in youth
• Create channels for continuing community involvement by business and industry

Visit or call the YMCA of East Tennessee Outreach Program today:

            Charles Warner Cansler Family YMCA
            616 Jessamine Street
            Knoxville, TN 37917
            (865) 637-9622

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord, ”plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”                  Jeremiah 29:11