County partners with YMCA to keep teens active, engaged, and safe during summer

SAN JOSE – This summer, Santa Clara County and the YMCA of Silicon Valley are keeping teens active, engaged, and safe while school is out for summer with the “Get Summer” teen initiative. With County funding, the YMCA is offering free memberships to teens of low-income families who live in West Valley and North County communities.

“Surprisingly summer break can be tough on teens. Social interaction and access to support systems can be limited when school is not in session,” said Santa Clara County Supervisor Joe Simitian, who proposed County support for the YMCA teen summer membership initiative. “With this program the YMCA will be offering teens a safe and welcoming gathering place to have some fun and build connections.”

Through “Get Summer,” teens entering high school in fall 2024 to recent 2024 high school graduates will receive a YMCA membership from June 1 through July 31, 2024. Teens will be able to improve their health by using gym facilities (courts, pools, and fitness classes), develop leadership skills by participating in volunteer projects, and connect with their peers by joining social gatherings. 

"YMCA of Silicon Valley is deeply committed to the holistic development of teens and to nurturing the mental and physical well-being of all young people in our community," said Mary Haughey, Chief Operating Officer for YMCA of Silicon Valley. "The 'Get Summer!' free teen summer membership program proudly underscores our dedication to cultivating an environment where teens not only flourish but also discover a profound sense of belonging. We are grateful to Supervisor Simitian and Santa Clara County for being committed partners in this mission."

The YMCA “Get Summer” free teen membership is available at nine YMCA locations across the County, including the El Camino YMCA in Mountain View, Northwest YMCA in Cupertino, Palo Alto Family YMCA, and Southwest YMCA in Saratoga. Learn more about the YMCA and “Get Summer.”