Afterschool programs do more than provide a safe place for children to learn and play. They help young people build confidence, strengthen relationships, and develop the social and emotional skills needed to succeed in school and beyond.

A statewide initiative coordinated by the North Carolina Alliance of YMCAs demonstrated the positive impact of YMCA afterschool programs on character development among elementary school students.

Results showed that 87% of participating youth demonstrated growth in at least one character development capacity, highlighting the important role YMCAs play in supporting the development and well-being of young people.

Measuring the Impact of YMCA Afterschool Programs

Supported by funding from the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, the initiative brought together 14 YMCA associations to strengthen youth development practices and measure outcomes among students in grades 3–5.

Using the Hello Insight assessment tool, participating YMCAs evaluated how their programs supported the development of important social-emotional skills and character-building capacities.

The results demonstrated meaningful progress:

• 87% of participating youth demonstrated growth in at least one character development capacity.
• 66% demonstrated growth in two or more capacities.
• 84% reported experiencing positive youth development practices that encouraged them to try hard and do their best.

These findings reinforced the value of intentional youth development practices and the positive influence of supportive relationships with YMCA staff.

Building Skills That Extend Beyond the Classroom

YMCA afterschool programs provide opportunities for children to develop skills that contribute to academic success, positive relationships, and overall well-being.

Through engaging activities, supportive environments, and relationships with caring adults, young people strengthen their ability to work with others, manage challenges, build confidence, and contribute to their communities.

The initiative also helped participating YMCAs better understand how their programs influence youth development and identify opportunities to strengthen program quality.

Strengthening Youth Development Across North Carolina

The North Carolina Alliance of YMCAs plays an important role in connecting local YMCA associations with resources, professional development opportunities, and tools to measure their collective impact.

Through this initiative, the Alliance supported a coordinated approach to evaluating character development outcomes, helping participating YMCAs demonstrate the value of their programs and strengthen practices that support positive youth development.

The findings provide an example of how statewide collaboration can help local YMCAs better understand and communicate the difference they make in the lives of children and families.

By investing in character development and positive youth experiences, YMCAs across North Carolina are helping young people build the skills and confidence to thrive.