Charting New Pathways for Our Teen Achievers: 2023 Summer College Tours

This summer, our Summit Area YMCA Achievers Program left no stone unturned as they ventured on an annual rite of passage, their Summer College Tour. A unique blend of education, exploration, and fun, the 2023 Achievers Summer College Tour was a four-day, three-night adventure that spanned three states and included visits to six prestigious colleges.

Our energetic and bright young achievers packed their bags and embarked on a journey to taste the vibrant life on various campuses. They dropped in at The University of Connecticut (UConn), Suffolk University, Emerson College, Boston University, Boston College, and New York University (NYU). In each location, they stepped into the shoes of college students, absorbing the atmosphere, observing the educational approach, and even dining at the university cafeterias. This gave them a firsthand glimpse of living, learning, and growing in these schools, fueling their dreams and ambitions.

Beyond academic institutions, the journey also carried our Achievers to the heart of downtown Boston and the bustling Natick Mall. This was a delightful first for many of our teens, as they soaked in Boston’s rich culture, tasting its unique flavor that blends history with modernity. Visiting downtown Boston was indeed an eye-opener for our Achievers. They were given the opportunity to see and experience a city teeming with possibilities, extending beyond academics to embrace the arts, technology, and sports.

The last night of this transformative trip was the epitome of joy and camaraderie. The group headed to Xtreme Craze, an entertainment hub, where they had an unforgettable evening playing laser tag, arcade games, and exploring an inflatable park. But the fun didn’t stop there. The Achievers added a cherry on top of the trip by celebrating the birthday of one of their own.

This enriching experience goes beyond simple college tours; it is a critical part of the Summit Area YMCA Achievers Program that aims to equip our teens with a robust sense of self, an understanding of their academic and career options, and an excitement for the future. 

This summer's tour is just one highlight of our year-round Achievers Program. If you are, or know, a young person looking to learn, grow, and experience adventures like these, join us in our mission to foster tomorrow's leaders today. After all, the journey to success starts with one step, or in our case, one unforgettable college tour! Learn more below. 

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EMPOWER OUR TEEN ACHIEVERS

As we celebrate the triumphs of our Teen Achievers, we're reminded of how crucial these experiences are in shaping their futures. If you're moved by our mission and want to help us reach more young lives, consider a donation. Your support empowers us to inspire more teens and fuel more achievements. Thank you for being part of the Summit Area YMCA family!

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SUMMIT AREA YMCA

BERKELEY HEIGHTS YMCA | SUMMIT YMCA | THE LEARNING CIRCLE YMCA

In 1886, we were founded as the Young Men's Christian Association, but today, we are The Y. An association that values, and is made stronger by, its diverse people. We stand for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility — For a better us. We are committed to creating equal opportunity for all regardless of gender, age, disability, income, ethnicity, sexual orientation or religious affiliation. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive culture in which our four core values — responsibility, honesty, caring and respect — are integral to everyday operations.

Each year, as one of the area’s leading 501(c)3 charitable organizations, the Summit Area YMCA serves more than 15,000 individuals with our free and fee-based programs and services in an area spanning the New Jersey communities of Berkeley Heights, Gillette, Millburn, New Providence, Short Hills, Springfield, Stirling and Summit. Our history is rooted in working side-by-side with our neighbors to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. Through the generosity of our members, donors, and partners, we are able to offer financial assistance for our programs and services to those in need.