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​​​For Young Men Ages 10-13

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Having positive male role models is crucial for young men, particularly those growing up in fatherless households. Research indicates that nearly one-fourth of children in the United States grow up without a father figure. The absence of a male influence can have significant negative effects on a boy's life. Studies show that boys who lack positive male role models are more likely to experience difficulties in various aspects of their development, including academic performance, social relationships, emotional well-being, and behavioral issues. 

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Positive male role models provide guidance, support, and encouragement, helping young men navigate challenges and make positive life choices. They offer mentorship and serve as examples of responsible behavior, instilling values like resilience, perseverance, and respect.​

 

Without such role models, young men may struggle to develop a strong sense of identity and may be more susceptible to negative influences. Therefore, fostering positive male role models is essential for the holistic development and well-being of young men in fatherless households. 

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Program Overview

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Summer (June - August): Outdoor and Nature Focus

June: Introduction and Team Building

• Welcome event with parents to explain the program.

• Icebreaker games to foster connections.

• Activities: Nature hike, scavenger hunt, and campfire introductions.

• Topic: Understanding strengths and learning styles.

July: Camping and Outdoor Skills

• Weekend camping trip with lessons in setting up tents, building a fire, and cooking outdoors.

• Activities: Fishing, storytelling by the fire, and star-gazing.

• Topic: Problem-solving and collaboration through group activities.

August: Nature Exploration and Focus Skills

• Exploring local parks, identifying plants, and journaling about experiences.

• Activities: Fishing day trip and nature photography.

• Topic: Improving focus and mindfulness (e.g., breathing exercises, journaling).

 

Fall (September - November): Academic and Personal Growth

September: Study Habits and Organization

• Interactive workshop on creating homework schedules and organizing school materials.

• Activities: Create individual schedules for each boy to help with Executive Functioning.

• Topic: Study habits for boys with ADHD and overcoming procrastination.

October: Overcoming Challenges

• Guest speakers (young men with ADHD sharing their success stories).

• Activities: Role-playing scenarios for overcoming frustration.

• Topic: Strategies for managing distractions and handling setbacks.

November: Leadership and Responsibility

• Workshop on setting personal goals and tracking progress.

• Activities: Group challenge to create a project plan (e.g., planning a community service activity).

• Topic: Developing self-discipline and accountability.

 

Winter (December - February): Emotional and Social Development

December: Gratitude and Giving Back

• Volunteer activity (e.g., helping at a food bank or creating holiday cards for seniors).

• Activities: Reflective journaling and sharing moments of gratitude.

• Topic: Building empathy and the importance of giving back.

January: Understanding Emotions and Self-Control

• Group discussion about recognizing and managing emotions.

• Activities: Simple yoga and relaxation exercises.

• Topic: Emotional regulation strategies for boys with ADHD.

February: Healthy Relationships and Communication

• Practice expressing feelings and resolving conflicts through role-playing.

• Activities: Team-building games focused on cooperation and trust.

• Topic: Building strong friendships and communicating effectively.

 

Spring (March - May): Preparing for Future Success and Graduation

March: Time Management and Goal Setting

• Workshop on prioritizing tasks and breaking goals into manageable steps.

• Activities: Create a vision board.

• Topic: Building routines for academic and personal success.

April: Transition to Leadership

• Encourage participants to apply to the YMCA Young Leaders Program.

• Activities: Introduction to leadership principles and how to mentor younger peers.

• Topic: Becoming a role model and developing leadership skills.

May: Graduation and Celebration

• Reflect on progress and accomplishments over the year.

• Activities: Graduation ceremony with certificates of completion, awards, and parent presentations.

• Topic: Celebrating achievements and looking forward to future opportunities.