At the West Side Y, teens can work on leadership skills, prep for college, play a sport, and give back through programs designed for them. We’re committed to empowering youth around New York City, and many of our teen programs are free for qualified participants.

Education and Leadership

West Side Y Teen Programming

West Side Y Teen Center   
Tuesday-Fridays 3:00PM-6:00PM   
(For 6-12th Grade)

Our Teen Center is a fun and safe place for teens to socialize, network, and have positive interaction with peers and YMCA counselors. Teens will have access to the 4th floor fitness facility and basketball court and will be able to participate in our leadership, career prep and civic engagement programs below. 

Leaders Club   
(For 9th-12th Grade)    
This program provides club members with opportunities for leadership training, personal growth, community service, and social development. Young people meet on a weekly basis in a small group of peers and advisors to map out career and educational goals, seek information, and share experiences related to self-improvement.

Rowe Scholars   
(For 9th-12th Grade)    
High school students have the opportunity to participate in a workshop series on college prep and career readiness. Advisors provide guidance in navigating the intricacies of applying for college and preparing to join the workforce.   
 

To participate in the Teen Center Program, please fill out the application and either return to West Side Y or email to Daria Knowles at dknowles@ymcanyc.org.   
 

Teen Center Application   
 

Teen Center Jan 2024 Newsletter 

Teen Center Feb 2024 Newsletter

 

Events

More to come!

Swim & Sports

Teen Membership

(Ages 12-17)

Enjoy all the Y has to offer, including:

  • State-of-the-art fitness center
  • Lap swim, family swim, and swim programs in our pool
  • Indoor group exercise classes
  • Racquet sports
  • Basketball court
  • Indoor track

No contracts, no annual fees. Member discounts and priority registration for programs.    

TEEN MEMBERSHIP RATES    
$44/month    
$528/year    
+ $0 joiner's fee    
 

Join Now

Teen Access in the Fitness Center

(Ages 12-17)

Teen Hours    
Monday – Friday 3:00PM -9:00PM    
Saturday-Sunday 8:00AM – 5:00PM

If you have a teen membership, you can come in to the Fitness Center during Teen Hours.    

If you are a teen on a family membership, you can come on your own during teen hours. If you come with an adult who is part of your family membership, you can come anytime the Y is open.

Teen Fitness Orientation    
To start your teen’s fitness experience off on the right foot, we require a teen orientation to teach gym etiquette, the proper use of equipment, and to work out in a safe manner. Consultations are provided to new teen members and teen program participants. Please contact jwood@ymcanyc.org to schedule an orientation.    
 

Group Exercise Classes    
The Y offers many group fitness classes each week, free for Y members and Teen Center participants.  Find a class that works for you, drop in, and start working out!

See Schedule


 

Swim

Swim Lessons   
Teens can learn to swim, improve their skills, or join a youth swim team. Swimming programs are not part of the Teen Center. 

Find a Swim Lesson

 


 

Lifeguard Training

Lifeguard Training and Certification   
Looking for a rewarding job or career as a lifeguard? The YMCA offers free lifeguarding classes and hires qualified lifeguards in all five New York City boroughs. Become a certified lifeguard and help save lives. 

Become a Lifeguard