Teens

A PLACE TO BELONG, GROW AND THRIVE 

At the YMCA of the Sandhills, youth development is a core pillar of our mission.  We provide a welcoming community where young people can connect with friends, discover their potential, and build the skills they need to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.

From leadership development and volunteer opportunities to wellness activities and mental health support, the Y is committed to helping teens thrive—physically, socially and emotionally.

Programs and Opportunities for Teens    

GET SUMMER – FREE Y MEMBERSHIP FOR TEENS 

With the Y’s GET SUMMER membership, teens aged 12-18 get free access to the Saleeby Family YMCA and the Fayetteville YMCA this year! We're excited to serve teens in Cumberland and Harnett Counties!

GET SUMMER membership includes exclusive teen-only workouts, swimming, trips, competitions and social events - all designed for fun and connection.  Plus, teens will level up their skills for the real world with help from local mentors, learning things like how to ace a job interview, manage money and handle stress. 

GET SUMMER teen membership sign-ups start May 15, 2025 and includes membership for June, July and August, and specific programs and events only for teens. (Limited number of free memberships; current members interested will be discounted through the GET SUMMER membership option when they register.)  To register for Get Summer, visit the Saleeby Family Y in Cameron or the Fayetteville Branch on Ft. Bragg Rd.

LEADERSHIP TRAINING 

The Y’s Leaders in Training (LIT) and Counselors in Training (CIT) programs give teens hands-on experience at summer camp at the Y while helping teens build confidence, communication and leadership skills. 

• LIT Program: Teens aged 12-13 assist with younger campers at the Y’s summer day camp and learn the basics of leadership. 
• CIT Program: Teens aged 14-15) take on even more responsibility, work closely with camp counselors and even earn CPR certification.
• Both programs are available to teens at a discounted camp rate and are great additions to college and job applications.
• Teens who are ready to lead can apply online or in person at the front desk of either the Saleeby Family YMCA or the Fayetteville YMCA. 

Application and interview are required to register. If you have questions, contact Chealsea Sias, Association Youth Development Director.

WORK AT THE Y!

Teens looking for a part-time job during the school year or summer are invited to apply for a job at the YMCA of the Sandhills! As an organization devoted to youth development, the Y offers teens an amazing opportunity to gain valuable life and leadership skills to help prepare them for college and career. 

From afterschool counselors to summer day camp counselors to lifeguards, we have many opportunities for teens to work at the Y. Here are just a few of the skills teens develop working at the Y:

• Teamwork and collaboration
• Problem-solving and creativity
• Communications and public speaking
• Time management
• Responsibility and accountability
• Organization and planning
• Emergency preparedness
• Negotiations
• Teaching and mentoring

The Y is dedicated to serving people through programs that build a healthy mind, body and spirit. We are looking for individuals who exemplify our core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility to help us provide a fun, engaging and enriching atmosphere where all people are welcome.

Benefits to Joining Our Team

• A positive and welcoming environment with great people.
• A team-oriented and supportive atmosphere.
• A free Y membership with access to our fitness facilities, pool and group exercise classes.
• Staff wellness and team-building activities.
• A flexible schedule.
• Paid staff development and leadership training.

Learn more about working at the Y! Build your resume at the Y! 

LIFEGUARD CERTIFICATION

The Y is always looking for people dedicated to keeping others safe at the pool and around water! 

Our lifeguard training course equips participants with lifesaving skills, that can include water rescues, CPR, AED usage, and first aid. Upon successful completion, participants can qualify to receive an American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification, valid for two years and recognized nationwide.

Teens aged 15 (as of the last day of the course) and older are eligible. Learn more about the Y’s Lifeguard Certification course. 

WHOLE HEALTH:  PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELL-BEING FOR TEENS

For all of us, mental health and well-being are part of our overall health. The Y fosters healthy spirit, mind and body. 
From a young age, we're taught that you should visit the doctor when you feel physical pain or discomfort. But what do you do when the pain and discomfort are coming from your thoughts and emotions?

While physical illnesses affect part of your body, mental illnesses affect your emotions, thinking or behavior— and sometimes a combination of all three. Mental health challenges are very common, and it’s OK to not feel OK. But it’s important to get help when needed. 

Teens and parents, check out the Teen Mental Health Resource Hub–a tool for learning more and getting help. 

The Y’s GET SUMMER membership program for teens is all about supporting teens with social connections that support overall health and well-being. Teens aged 12-18 are invited to join us this summer!