Youth Empowerment Programs
The YMCA offers a variety of specialty classes, programs and services for teens to help them give back, read ahead, work out, learn a new skill and meet friends.
Teen Life Skills Workshop
Attention Teens!
Join us for an exciting new series of workshops created specifically for you. The Teen Life Skills Workshop Series, offered at YMCA locations throughout Indianapolis, will equip you with essential skills to excel in various aspects of your life
1/31 – Valentine’s Candy Workshop: Sweetheart Sweets
In this workshop, teens will design and fill charming candy boxes for loved ones while learning basic business principles. Discover how to turn your creativity into a small business and make this Valentine’s Day extra special!
5/15 – Sowing Seeds of Self Sufficiency
“Sowing Seeds of Self Sufficiency” is a hands-on workshop where teens discover the joy of cultivating their own food. Participants will learn seed-planting techniques, vegetable growth cycles, and the value of independence through gardening. This interactive experience fosters life skills, environmental awareness, and a deeper connection to nature.
Particpants will take home planted seeds to grow at home.
07/18 – Cooking from the Garden
“Cooking from the Garden” builds upon the gardening skills learned in part one, guiding teens through the culinary process. Participants will harvest their homegrown vegetables and prepare a tasty, garden-fresh meal. This workshop teaches kitchen safety, cooking techniques, and the rewarding cycle of nurturing food from seed to plate. Teens will gain confidence in their ability to grow, cook, and enjoy their own nourishing meals.
located at the OrthoIndy Foundation YMCA
All workshop materials included
Free to all, attendees must register.
Teen Life Skills Workshop
Attention Teens!
Join us for an exciting new series of workshops created specifically for you. The Teen Life Skills Workshop Series, offered at YMCA locations throughout Indianapolis, will equip you with essential skills to excel in various aspects of your life.
4/16 – Intro to Cooking
“Intro to Cooking” teaches teens how to make delicious chocolate chip cookies while learning smart, budget-friendly kitchen basics. Participants will explore simple measuring, baking techniques, and ways to stretch ingredients without sacrificing flavor. Through guided instruction and hands-on practice, teens will gain confidence in the kitchen and discover how fun and rewarding cooking at home can be.
Participants will enjoy their freshly baked cookies and leave with tips for baking on a budget.
6/6 – Ink Smart
“Ink Smart” is an engaging workshop that helps teens better understand the world of body art. Participants will learn about tattoo and piercing health practices, safety considerations, and the importance of making informed decisions. The session also explores creative careers within the body art industry, giving teens insight into the skills and professionalism behind the art.
Participants will leave with practical knowledge to make safe and informed choices.
6/27 – Constructing Confidence
“Constructing Confidence” is a hands-on workshop where teens learn the essentials of building and DIY craftsmanship. Participants will explore tool safety, basic construction techniques, and the satisfaction of creating something with their own hands. Through guided instruction and practical projects, teens will strengthen problem-solving abilities, spatial awareness, and self-reliance. This engaging experience empowers youth to approach new challenges with confidence and curiosity.
Participants will complete a group project to improve the YMCA campgrounds and that shows off their newly developed skills.
All workshop materials included, located at the Arthur Jordan YMCA. Workshops, Saturdays from 10am-Noon.
Free to all, attendees must register.
Y-Achievers
Y-Achievers at the Jordan YMCA designed to help guide current 8th and 9th graders prepare for life beyond highschool!
Students will leave this 10-week Program with increased confidence in the various of career pathways that exist in the world!
Educators and Guest Speakers from local colleges, businesses, and more will teach practical skills like Resume Building and Interviewing Tips and Tricks.
This 10-week program will meet Saturdays, from 9:30-11:00 AM at the Jordan YMCA. Lite Breakfast will be provided.
There will be no class February 28th.
Registration Information
Available Sessions
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01/24/26 - 04/04/26
Sa - 9:30 am - 1 hr, 30 mins
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Register |