In response to the varied and unprecedented operational nature of area schools this fall, YMCA of Greater Charlotte announced today that it’s running a full-day Back to School program at 12 of its branches. The programming is designed to complement what students will be learning in their physical and/or virtual classrooms, and offers peace of mind to parents worried about schools not being open in a traditional sense.

Since the beginning of the pandemic shutdowns in March, the Y has evolved its traditional offerings and programs to meet community needs. Beginning with free emergency childcare for essential Atrium Health and Novant Health employees, the Y was able to put into place best practices according to the CDC and local health authorities, and explore firsthand how to keep kids safe while they’re having fun. The Y began examining how it could safely operate its camps during the summer. Two overnight camps and 15 day camps have been operating and serving nearly 2,000 unique kids per week since the start of the summer season.

“We have been working diligently with the school districts we serve to build out this program and make it work for both students and parents,” said Adrianne Hobbs, executive director of youth development for YMCA of Greater Charlotte. “We are experts in the child care and educational space, and as such, we look forward serving kids across the area through our new Back to School program this fall.”

Daily programming will include virtual learning time through the children’s schools, enrichment programming, social-emotional activities and physical fitness. Participants will be in groups that are designed to be kept separate from other groups and with as much in-group distancing as possible.

The Back to School program is available for kids in preschool through 6^th grade. Program costs vary, and financial assistance is available. Parents can find a location and hold their child’s spot at ymcacharlotte.org/backtoschool.

Anyone interested in working in the Back to School program can explore available opportunities and apply online at ymcacharlotte.org/careers.