The Clarence E. Lightner YMCA Achievers program introduces teens in grades 6 - 12 to adults of color who guide them through experiences that prepare them for life after high school. Through civic engagement, community service projects, and academic enhancement programs, students make new friends, learn healthy lifestyle choices and prepare for their future.
Teens attend meetings where they are divided into small age-appropriate groups called clusters and are exposed to a variety of education and career options. Lightner Y Achievers also take part in volunteer opportunities and group outings. During our spring break college tour, high school students visit area universities and learn more about higher education options.
PROGRAM PILLARS
The Lightner Y Achievers program is built on 6 Program Pillars
- Academic Success
- College & Career Readiness
- Civic Engagement
- Leadership Development
- Racial Equity
- Healthy Living
Benefits & Fees
- Visit local and out of state colleges during annual tours
- Visit local companies and organizations for industry tours
- Access to partial scholarships for senior participants
- Life-long friendships with Achievers across the nation
- Professional development
- Leadership opportunities and trainings
- Certified community service hours
- Letters of recommendation
$206/year for members
$258/year for program participants
SPECIAL EVENTS
- Clarence E. Lightner YMCA Achievers Banquet
- NC Youth & Government Conference
- Annual College Tour
- End-of-Year Celebration
Key Program Dates
Kickoff Dates
Middle School Orientation & Kickoff: Saturday, Aug. 17, 10 - 11 a.m.
High School Orientation & Kickoff: Saturday, Aug. 17, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Summit Information
Bi-weekly program summits are held from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at William Peace University - 15 East Peace Street, Raleigh, N.C. 27604 unless otherwise noted.
2024-25 Summit Dates
September 7
September 21
October 5
October 19
November 2
November 16
December 7
December 21
January 18
February 1
February 15
March 1
March 15
March 31 - April 3 - Annual College Tour
April 19
May 3
May 17 - Annual Celebration
Branch Clubs
We offer two branch-based Achievers clubs at the Chapel Hill - Carrboro YMCA and Alexander Family YMCA. These clubs will primarily meet locally at their branches, with opportunities throughout the year to also take part in the Saturday Summits at the YMCA corporate offices (transportation provided).
Contact the local directors for additional information about these programs:
Mike Brown, Chapel Hill - Carrboro YMCA
Weekly Chapel Hill meetings are scheduled for Thursdays, 6:40 - 8 p.m.
Annual College Tour
The College Tour is March 31 - April 3, 2025. During this time, students visit Colleges and Universities in the Southern U.S. The tour focuses on learning about each college and allowing students to meet staff, learn more about schools and gather information for post-graduation decisions.
Planned Tour Stops Include:
- NC A&T State University
- UNC Greensboro
- Winston-Salem State University
- Wake Forest University
- High Point University
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Adult Achievers are key to the program's success and growth. These volunteers serve 12 hours per month as committee members, cluster leaders and/ or role models. Find volunteer opportunities.
DONATE
The Lightner Y Achievers program is funded through the YMCA's Annual Campaign. Please consider a donation.
CONTACT
For more information about Lightner Y Achievers, contact Yo Sobha, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging or call 919-719-9622.