activities · 26
what they do
direct service · 21
- Aquatics ProgramsProvides comprehensive aquatics programs including swim lessons for all ages, youth swim teams, and certification programs. The organization also offers access to lap pools for exercise and heated outdoor pools for lap swim sessions.
- Career and Leadership Development Career Pathways Development & Workforce AlignmentProvides career assistance and leadership training programs for individuals of all ages, including teens and adults, to build skills and work experience.
- Community Outreach Services Volunteer Mobilization & ManagementOffers community outreach programs that deliver essential services and resources to individuals in need, expanding the YMCA’s impact beyond facility walls.
- Community Outreach and SupportOffers community outreach programs that provide essential services and resources to individuals in need, including support for senior adults to live healthier and more engaged lives, and career assistance and leadership training for all ages. The organization also expands book access through Little Free Library boxes.
- Community Resource Access Initiatives Book Distribution & Reading Space DevelopmentHosts Little Free Library boxes at the Northwest Valley and Southwest Valley Family YMCAs to expand book access and promote literacy within the community.
- Early Learning and Childcare Programs Child Care & Early Learning ProgramsProvides early learning programs that prepare children for kindergarten and lifelong learning, along with before- and after-school care offering a safe, enriching environment with homework assistance, creative projects, physical activities, and social development opportunities.
- Early Learning and School-Aged ChildcareProvides early learning programs to prepare children for kindergarten, as well as before and after-school programs that offer a safe, enriching environment with homework assistance, creative projects, physical activities, and social development opportunities in Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, and surrounding communities.
- Fundraising for Program AccessConducts fundraising activities to support community access to YMCA programs, ensuring broader participation regardless of financial barriers.
- Health and Fitness Programs Adaptive and Inclusive Fitness ClassesOffers a wide range of fitness classes and activities including strength training (Group Power®, HIIT 30, Jump Start), cardio workouts (Cycling, Zumba Toning®, Dance!), yoga (Power Yoga, Yoga For All, Yoga Flow, Chair Yoga), martial arts (Kickboxing), and mind-body practices (Tai Chi, meditation). Programs are available for all ages and fitness levels, with specialized classes like SilverSneakers® Classic and Active Older Adult fitness for seniors.
- Health and Fitness Programs Adaptive and Inclusive Fitness ClassesOffers a wide range of health and fitness programs including strength training (Group Power®), cardio workouts (Cycling, HIIT 30, Kickboxing), yoga (Power Yoga, Yoga For All, Yoga Flow, Chair Yoga, Tai Chi), dance-based fitness (Dance!, Zumba Toning®), and balance classes for all ages, including specialized programs for older adults (SilverSneakers®, Active Older Adult classes).
- S.T.E.A.M. and Family Enrichment Programs Youth & Family Outdoor Adventure ProgramsIntegrates S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) education with physical activities to support holistic family growth and maintain children's engagement in reading, problem-solving, and creative thinking during summer break.
- Senior Adult Wellness Programs Adaptive and Inclusive Fitness ClassesProvides fitness and wellness programs tailored for older adults, including Chair Yoga, SilverSneakers® Classic, Tai Chi, Balance classes, and Active Older Adult fitness to support strength, fall prevention, and social engagement.
- Sports and Recreational Activities Adult and Youth Sports Leagues and Open PlayOffers sports programs for all ages including basketball, volleyball, pickleball, racquetball, e-sports, and team sports like soccer and relay races. Provides open gym times for basketball and beginner/intermediate instruction in pickleball across multiple locations.
- Summer and Day Camp Programs Youth & Family Outdoor Adventure ProgramsOperates summer day camps and holiday camps that provide structured, engaging activities in sports, arts and crafts, nature exploration, science experiments, drama, and music. Camps serve children across Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, and surrounding communities, promoting creativity, teamwork, and personal growth.
- Summer and Holiday Camps Youth & Family Outdoor Adventure ProgramsOperates summer and holiday camps designed to shape character, foster belonging, and encourage social responsibility through activities such as arts and crafts, sports, outdoor adventures, community service projects, environmental initiatives, and educational programming to maintain engagement in reading and problem-solving.
- Swim and Water Safety Programs Swim Instruction & Water Safety TrainingOffers swim lessons for all ages focusing on water safety and confidence building, competitive swim teams for youth, lap swim sessions in heated outdoor pools, and certification programs. Provides access to aquatic facilities for low-impact, full-body exercise supporting cardiovascular health.
- Teen Services and Programming Youth Mentoring ProgramsProvides dedicated teen programming including Teen Fitness Hours, social events like Teen Night Out, certification courses (Babysitting, CPR/AED/First Aid), and supervised after-school transportation via the Teen Transportation program to enable participation in structured activities.
- Youth Development and Character Building Programs Youth Mentoring ProgramsSupports youth in developing skills, character strengths (honesty, respect, responsibility, caring), and positive relationships through structured activities. Programs emphasize social responsibility, teamwork, and personal growth in inclusive environments.
- Youth Development and Leadership Programs Youth Mentoring ProgramsSupports youth in developing skills, character, and positive behaviors through programs like Youth and Government for civic leadership, Teens In Leadership Training (TILT) for leadership development and work experience, and S.T.E.A.M. education integrated with physical activities. Also offers Teen Fitness Hours, social events, and certification courses like Babysitting and CPR/AED/First Aid.
- Youth Leadership and Civic Engagement Programs Youth Civic Leadership TrainingOffers hands-on leadership development through the Teens In Leadership Training (TILT) program, Youth and Government for teens, and teen volunteer opportunities. These programs provide work experience, civic education, and pathways to community impact across Arizona.
- Youth Sports Programs Adult and Youth Sports Leagues and Open PlayOffers sports programs for individuals of all ages, including basketball, volleyball, e-sports, and pickleball, with open gym times and beginner/intermediate instruction available. Also provides racquetball sessions.
advocacy · 2
- Advocacy Policy & Systems AdvocacyEngages in advocacy to influence policies and initiatives addressing societal issues at both community and national levels.
- Advocacy for Societal Issues Policy & Systems AdvocacyEngages in advocacy efforts to influence policies and initiatives addressing societal issues at both community and national levels.
capacity building · 3
- Early Learning Educator Apprenticeship Program Teacher Credentialing Programs with Field ExperienceOffers a State of Arizona-registered Early Learning Educator Apprenticeship Program that provides 2,000 hours of on-the-job learning and 144 hours of related instruction over one year.
- Volunteer Services Program Volunteer Mobilization & ManagementOperates a volunteer services program that engages individuals in community giving and service, including volunteer-led programming for sports coaching and health and wellness classes.
- Volunteer and Workforce Development ProgramsOperates a volunteer services program engaging individuals in community service and offers the State of Arizona-registered Early Learning Educator Apprenticeship Program, which includes 2,000 on-the-job hours and 144 hours of related instruction. Also conducts staff training on positive supportive behaviors for youth development staff.
strategies · 14
how they think
Theories of action extracted from this org's own source material. Click any to see the full field of orgs running the same approach.
- Character Development through Supportive Environments character_development_through_inclusive_campingThe organization cultivates character, belonging, and social responsibility by integrating core values, community service, and environmental stewardship into its programs, particularly within camp and sports settings. This approach emphasizes creating supportive and inclusive environments that foster positive social development and teach values like honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring.
- Community engagement through volunteerism and outreach to advance shared well-being community_outreach, community_volunteer_engagement, cause-driven volunteer engagement, community_strengtheningBuilds community connections and promotes personal growth by engaging volunteers and neighbors in cause-driven initiatives, using outreach and local partnerships to expand access to services and resources.
- Community-Supported and Inclusive Engagement community_strengtheningThe organization builds strong communities and promotes personal growth by fostering connections through community outreach, volunteer engagement, and inclusive programming. This strategy ensures equitable opportunities, supports youth development through mentoring and coaching, and creates welcoming environments where all individuals feel supported and encouraged to participate.
- Experiential and Hands-on Learning for Skill Building experiential_learningThe organization utilizes hands-on, activity-based, and experiential learning methods to build practical skills, leadership qualities, and confidence. This approach is applied across various programs, from youth development and civic engagement to early education, allowing participants to learn by doing in engaging and supportive environments.
- Experiential and hands-on learning to build leadership and real-world skills in teens experiential learning, hands-on learning, confidence-building youth developmentUses immersive, activity-based methods such as simulated civic processes and structured play to teach leadership, responsibility, and civic engagement, enabling youth to develop confidence through direct experience.
- Fitness and Wellness through Guided Programs community-supported fitnessThe organization promotes physical health and overall well-being through guided fitness programs, recreational activities, and structured training. This includes community-supported fitness, sports programming for youth development, and mind-body practices, all designed to improve health, build strength, and encourage active lifestyles.
- Holistic Development through Integrated Programming holistic_wellnessThe organization fosters comprehensive personal growth by integrating physical activity, educational content (including STEAM), character development, and social-emotional learning within its programs. This approach aims to develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, healthy lifestyles, and core values in individuals across all age groups.
- Holistic wellness through integrated mind, body, and spirit programming holistic_wellness, mind-body_fitness, fitness_through_recreation, strength_trainingDesigns programs that simultaneously address mental, physical, and spiritual health—such as yoga, strength training, and lap swimming—within a unified framework to support comprehensive personal development.
- Individualized and Confidence-Building Instruction individualized instructionThe organization supports individual learning paces and fosters confidence through tailored instruction and supportive programming. This approach ensures that participants, especially youth, receive personalized attention and encouragement to develop initiative and achieve their personal goals.
- Individualized, staff-supported learning environments for diverse developmental needs individualized instruction, social-emotional_learning_with_staff_support, integrated_early_education_and_careUses experienced instructors and tailored instruction to support individual learning paces, while integrating staff-supported social-emotional learning and structured play to meet cognitive, emotional, and social needs across age groups.
- Integrated S.T.E.A.M. and physical activity for holistic youth development integrated STEAM and physical activityCombines S.T.E.A.M. education with physical activity to simultaneously develop cognitive skills like critical thinking and problem-solving while promoting healthy lifestyles, creating a synergistic approach to child and family development.
- Integrated learning through play and interactive projects integrated learning through playCombines academic skill development with summer camp activities using hands-on projects and group challenges, enabling children to learn through engaging, interactive experiences.
- Sports and recreation as a vehicle for youth development and character building recreational youth development, character-based sports development, youth development through sportsLeverages sports, swim teams, and recreational programming to teach discipline, teamwork, sportsmanship, and goal-setting in a supportive environment, using physical activity as a foundation for personal growth.
- Youth development through inclusive, values-based camping with service integration values_based_character_education, character_development_through_inclusive_camping, service_integrated_camp_model, inclusive_programmingUses a camp model that fosters character, belonging, and social responsibility by integrating core values education, inclusive programming, and community service to build moral and civic capacity in youth.
named programs · 34
what they call their work
Active Older Adult
Exercise program for older adults seeking more challenge than chair-based workouts
Aqua Fit
Water-based fitness class using resistance tools in shallow water to improve cardio and strength
Aqua Fit - Deep
Deep-water interval training using flotation belts for non-impact, high-intensity exercise
Balance
Exercise class designed to improve strength, balance, flexibility, and gait to reduce fall risk
Circuit Training
Rotating stations combining cardio and strength exercises like jumping rope, lunging, and weightlifting
Cycle Strength
Group cycling class combined with off-bike strength training exercises
Cycling
Low-impact, high-intensity cardio workout on stationary bikes
Dance!
High-energy dance workout with no partner or special footwear required
Flexibility - 30
Class focusing on dynamic, active, and static stretches to improve range of motion and prevent injury
Gentle Yoga
Slow-paced Vinyasa flow focusing on fundamentals, alignment, and breath for all skill levels
Group Active®
Full-body workout improving cardiovascular fitness, strength, and movement health
Group Power®
High-repetition weight training workout using barbells, weight plates, and body weight
HIIT 30
High-intensity interval training with alternating bursts of intense exercise and rest periods
Interval Strength
High-intensity strength and endurance exercises to boost calorie burn
Jump Start
Interval training class alternating strength and cardio exercises using machines, ideal for beginners
Kickboxing
Total body workout focusing on core strength, balance, and cardiovascular endurance using kicks and punches
Lap Swim
Structured swimming sessions in heated outdoor pools for fitness and wellness
Mat Pilates
Core-focused exercise routine improving posture, joint mobility, and tension release
MixxedFit®
Dance-inspired fitness combining explosive movements with bodyweight toning
Muscle & Movement
Full-body sculpting workout including cardio, core, strength, and flexibility exercises
Open Gym
Unstructured gym time for shooting hoops and individual play
Pickleball
Racket sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis played with paddles and a plastic ball
Pickup Basketball
Open gym sessions for informal basketball play
Power Yoga
Intense, flowing yoga style with strengthening components
Racquetball
Recreational racquetball play on indoor or outdoor courts using walls to return the ball
SilverSneakers® Circuit
Circuit training combining upper-body strength and low-impact cardio for older adults
SilverSneakers® Classic
Fitness program for older adults including strength, endurance, and fall prevention exercises
SilverSneakers® Yoga
Seated and standing yoga poses to improve flexibility, balance, and range of motion for older adults
Tai Chi
Mind-body exercise combining slow movements, meditation, and deep breathing derived from Chinese martial arts
Yoga Flow
Vinyasa-style yoga linking breath and movement to build heat, strength, and mindfulness
Yoga For All
Accessible yoga focusing on flexibility, relaxation, and proper body alignment
Zumba Gold®
Modified Zumba at a slower pace, designed for older or beginner participants
Zumba in the Circuit®
Combination of Zumba dance and strength training for a full-body workout
Zumba®
Dance fitness class combining Latin and international music with easy-to-follow movements
relationships · 94
who they work with
- 1st Bank Partner — Corporate partner that contributed $10,000 or more
- ADP Partner — Corporate partner that contributed $10,000 or more
- APS Partner — Community partner supporting programs and services
- AZ Cardinals Partner — Corporate partner that contributed $10,000 or more
- AZ Central Partner — Corporate partner that contributed $10,000 or more
- Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA Partner — Branch location offering fitness programs including lap swim, group exercise, and racquetball.
- American Express Employee Giving Partner — Partner that contributed $2,500 or more
- American Heart Association Partner — Corporate partner that contributed $10,000 or more
- American Lung Association Partner — Partner that contributed $2,500 or more
- Arizona Community Foundation Partner — Corporate partner that contributed $10,000 or more
- Arizona Community Foundation of Sedona Partner — Partner that contributed $2,500 or more
- Arizona Department of Economic Security Government — Government partner
- Arizona Department of Education Government — Government partner
- Arizona Department of Housing Government — Government partner
- Arizona Trial Lawyers Association Partner — Partner that contributed $2,500 or more
- Avanti Windows & Doors, LLC Partner — Partner that contributed $2,500 or more
- Bill Luke Partner — Corporate partner that contributed $10,000 or more
- Breinholt Anderson Insurance Consultants, LLC Partner — Partner that contributed $2,500 or more
- CDC Government — References CDC developmental milestones and links to CDC child development resources.
- Camp Sky Y Partner — Partner camp offering programming through Valley of the Sun YMCA
- Care Inc. DBA For Our City Gilbert Partner — Partner that contributed $2,500 or more
- Chandler Compadres Partner — Corporate partner that contributed $10,000 or more
- Chandler/Gilbert Family YMCA Partner — Branch location offering fitness programs including pickleball and Active Older Adult classes.
- Charles Schwab Foundation Partner — Partner that contributed $2,500 or more
- Coffin & Trout Jewelers Inc Partner — Partner that contributed $2,500 or more
- Collette Travel Service, Inc Partner — Partner that contributed $2,500 or more
- Core Health & Fitness, LLC Partner — Partner that contributed $2,500 or more
- Creighton School District Government — Government partner
- Crest Insurance Group Partner — Corporate partner that contributed $10,000 or more
- Dan & Kathy Grubb Family Foundation Partner — Partner that contributed $2,500 or more
+ 64 more