Although this fall looked very different at YES, Boston’s young people were still able to get outdoors and active. They challenged themselves and had new experiences while improving their skills and gaining self-confidence.
YES partnered with three Boston housing developments (Old Colony, Academy Homes, and Mildred C. Hailey Apartments) to provide youth with new experiences in the outdoors. Fall programming included biking in the Southwest Corridor, Arnold Arboretum, and paths local to each development; kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding at Carson Beach and Malibu Beach; and rock climbing at Rock Spot and Nira Rock.
YES also continued their Family Adventures from the summer. Families had the opportunity to spend time together hiking, paddling, rock climbing, or biking with YES. One parent told us, “Rock climbing was scary and new to us, but we loved the opportunity to be outdoors and experience it for the first time in our lives!” The YES Chess program also continued into the fall and youth learned about fair play, strategy, and critical thinking skills.
In addition, YES youth had a few special experiences this fall! Young people had the opportunity to go fishing on the Boston Harbor with our friends from The Fishing Academy. They spent the day on the water learning and practicing new skills. Youth also had the opportunity to try archery for the first time thanks to On the Mark Archery and the Easton Foundation. YES youth also had the amazing chance to experience a private batting practice at Fenway Park. Youth practiced their batting skills and were given a private tour of the legendary ballpark.
Youth in YES’s Cross Country running program stayed active all season long with weekly practices at Saunders Stadium in Moakley Park. The program is an introduction to the sport of cross country running with a strong emphasis on the development of strength and stamina to run longer distances. Youth had the opportunity to compete in the Mayor’s Cup at Franklin Park in October.