Spring has sprung at YES – and it’s been a great season so far! Boston youth, teens, and families are getting fun and meaningful opportunities to get outdoors and experience new adventures! Over 100 young people will be active, gain new skills, and build self-confidence with YES this spring!
YES’s Spring Track & Field program expanded to two nights per week at Moakley Park in South Boston. The program boasts enrollment of more than 100 youth. Youth living in the lowest- income households received the opportunity to participate on both days. Also new this season is an advanced Track initiative with long-time YES volunteer coach, Mike Grasela. This exciting pilot is designed for older youth (11-13 years old) who demonstrate grit, commitment to the sport, and a desire to take their running to the next level.
Last year, YES piloted a drop-in biking initiative as a part of our Outdoor Adventure program to increase opportunities for youth living in housing developments to be physically active and reduce barriers for their participation. With young people spending less time outside and more time indoors throughout the COVID pandemic, YES expanded its partnership this spring with the Mildred C. Hailey and Academy Homes. YES staff and volunteers are on-site at the developments every week with bikes and helmets, building trust with young people and their families, leading bike rides through the Southwest Corridor Park, and providing safe opportunities for youth to get outside.
YES is also continuing its family program – another new initiative in response to the pandemic – as part of our Outdoor Adventure program. This spring, YES families are getting opportunities to spend time together while getting active! Recreational activities include rock climbing, kayaking/paddling, hiking, and biking.
This spring – and throughout the year – YES strives to make a difference and give outdoor opportunities to youth who need us the most. Thank you to everyone who helped make this spring a successful and safe outdoor season!