We are proud to operate the Young Parent Program at Kelowna Secondary School, in partnership with Central Okanagan Schools. This community program provides parents under the age of 24 (who have had their first child before the age of 20), with the fundamental tools they need to thrive, including quality child care, parenting education, life skills training, connections to critical resources and a supportive community.
Families receive individualized assessments and support based on their own specific needs. As an experienced child care provider, the YMCA also operates the child care centre which enables parents to pursue their studies and career while their children are cared for by YMCA Early Childhood Educators.
Program Goals
The YMCA of Southern Interior BC is a charity dedicated to building healthy communities and individuals. This essential community program empowers young parents to achieve the following:
- Positive academic performance
- Financial stability
- Healthy relationships
- Effective parenting abilities
- Healthy children
Parent Enrichment
The Young Parent Program provides participants with:
- Connections with and transportation to necessary community resources
- Supportive one-on-one coaching, mentorship and group support
- Life skills training and parenting education
- A bridge into post-secondary opportunities and YMCA Employment Programs
- Employment preparation, connections, and skills
- Individualized education plans for secondary and post-secondary schools
- Community connections
- Free YMCA membership for parents, providing access to other strength and character-building Y programs
Child Care Component
The YMCA Playing to Learn™ Child Care Centre supplements the YPP program with:
- Experienced, safe care for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years
- Nutritious food and supplies for children (formula, clothing, diapers and more)
- A welcoming and respectful community for children and their families
- Trusted YMCA Playing to Learn™ curriculum to support children’s learning and development
- Enhanced government subsidy for parents attending high school
- Support with child care subsidy application
- Additional YMCA financial support above and beyond government subsidy
- Free YMCA membership for children enrolled in YMCA care
How is this program funded?
We thank these community leaders for supporting the Young Parent Program:
- Central Okanagan Foundation
- Coast Capital Savings
- Ministry of Children & Family Development
- Valley First Community Endowment
- TELUS Friendly Future Foundation
- Rotary Club of Kelowna Morningside
- Monthly Donors
- Individual Community Donors
We need your support to ensure this program remains sustainable and to provide the baby basics these young parents need to succeed.
Please consider making a gift to the YMCA Young Parent Program today.
“Thank you for giving us a more inspired future than we could ever have imagined.”
When Melody became pregnant at the age of 16, she feared the negative stigma that is put on young mothers. The community at the YMCA Young Parent Program accepted her without judgement, helped her give the best care to herself and her daughter without neglecting her schooling and supported her career goals.