Building Future Leaders
The Clarence E. Lightner Y Achievers (LYA) program helps students in grades 6 - 12 discover their potential, build leadership skills and prepare for success in college, careers and life. Through mentorship, leadership development, civic engagement, community service, college exploration and academic support, participants gain the confidence, connections and experiences needed to thrive.
Our Mission
Dedicated to helping Triangle youth develop as leaders through opportunities in education, leadership, philanthropy, community service and civic engagement.
What We Do
The Lightner Y Achievers Program empowers young people to:
- Set and achieve ambitious educational and career goals
- Build confidence, character and leadership skills
- Connect with successful mentors and role models
- Explore college and career pathways
- Develop a commitment to community service
- Engage in civic leadership and advocacy
- Be recognized for academic, leadership and community achievements
Program Areas
Our History
The Clarence E. Lightner Y Achievers Program was created in 2010 through the merger of two influential youth leadership initiatives that shared a commitment to helping young people reach their full potential.
The YMCA of the Triangle's Y Achievers Program, rooted in the national Black Achievers movement founded in 1971, focused on inspiring teens, particularly teens of color, to pursue higher education, explore career opportunities and connect with mentors who could help guide their success.
The Clarence E. Lightner Youth Leadership Foundation, established in 2003, emphasized civic engagement, leadership development and community service. Named in honor of Clarence E. Lightner, Raleigh's first Black mayor, the foundation encouraged youth to become active leaders and advocates within their communities.
By bringing these two programs together, the YMCA created a stronger, more comprehensive leadership experience while honoring Mayor Lightner's legacy of service, excellence and community impact.
Today, the Clarence E. Lightner Y Achievers Program serves students in grades 6-12 through mentorship, academic support, leadership development, college and career exploration, civic engagement and community service. The program equips young people with the skills, confidence and connections needed to succeed in school, lead in their communities and thrive in their future careers.
Student Commitment
Lightner Y Achievers are expected to:
- Demonstrate the YMCA core values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility and Faith
- Participate actively and maintain a positive attitude
- Attend Saturday Summits and special events regularly
- Strive for academic excellence
- Show respect for themselves, fellow participants, volunteers and staff
- Serve their communities through meaningful volunteer work
- Represent themselves, their families, schools and communities with pride
Community Service Requirements
- Grades 6-11: Minimum 40 service hours annually
- Seniors: Minimum 60 service hours annually
Parent Expectations
Families play an important role in the success of every Achiever. Parents and guardians are encouraged to:
- Stay informed about program activities and deadlines
- Attend parent meetings and information sessions
- Support student participation in program events
- Review scholarship materials and required submissions
- Maintain current family contact information with program staff
Saturday Summits
These interactive sessions bring students together throughout the year to learn, connect and grow.
Topics Include
- Leadership Development
- Academic Success
- College & Career Readiness
- Civic Engagement
- Community Service
- Healthy Living
- Cultural Awareness
All Summits are on Saturday from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., unless otherwise noted.
2026
- Sept. 12
- Sept. 26
- Oct. 10
- Oct. 17
- Oct. 31
- Nov. 14
- Dec. 5
- Dec. 12
2027
- Jan. 9
- Jan. 14 (Thursday)
- Jan. 16
- Jan. 18 (Monday)
- Jan. 19 (Tuesday)
- Feb. 6
- Feb. 15 (Monday)
- Feb. 20
- March 6
- March 10
- March 20
- March 29 (Monday)
- April 3
- April 5 (Monday)
- April 17
- May 1
- May 15
- May 22
Join the Teen Advisory Council (TAC)
TAC gives Lightner Y Achievers the opportunity to lead, share ideas and help shape the program. Members support Saturday Summits, special events, community service projects and participant engagement.
Dependable, motivated student leaders are encouraged to apply.
College Tour Experience
Each year, Lightner Y Achievers offers a college tour during Wake County traditional calendar spring break.
2027 College Tour
The experience provides students with firsthand exposure to higher education institutions, campus life and postsecondary opportunities.
Dates: March 29-April 2, 2027
Eligible Grades: 9-11 (seniors may also participate)
Capacity: 30 students
For registration details and pricing, contact the Lightner Y Achievers team.
Scholarship Information
The Lightner Y Achievers Program celebrates and supports academic achievement through scholarship opportunities available to graduating seniors. Scholarships are awarded through a competitive application process and are funded through generous support from businesses, civic organizations, churches and individual donors.
Application Deadline: April 16, 2027, at 5 p.m.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a graduating high school senior
- Be an active participant in the current program year
- Attend at least 12 Saturday Summits
- Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA
- Complete at least 60 documented community service hours
- Demonstrate strong involvement in the Lightner Y Achievers Program
Application Materials
- Senior Information Form
- Official transcript
- SAT or ACT scores
- College acceptance letter
- Scholarship essay
- Parent acknowledgment form
Kendall Harris Community Impact Scholarship
Honoring a Legacy of Service
The Kendall Harris Community Impact Scholarship recognizes the lasting impact of Kendall Harris, a dedicated YMCA leader, advocate for equity and champion for youth development.
Awarded annually to a graduating Lightner Y Achiever senior, this scholarship honors students who demonstrate exceptional commitment to community impact and service.
Applicants must:
- Be a graduating senior in the current program year
- Have a minimum 2.75 weighted GPA
- Plan to attend a college, university or other higher education institution
- Complete and document at least 90 community service hours
- Submit all required application materials and essay responses
Students may apply for both the Lightner Y Achievers Scholarship and the Kendall Harris Community Impact Scholarship.
Become a Mentor or Adult Volunteer
Volunteers support students through mentoring, event participation, career exploration activities, leadership development and program support. If you're interested in sharing your time, expertise and encouragement with the next generation of leaders, we'd love to hear from you.