After years of conversations with residents and leaders in the Bryan-College Station area, the YMCA of Central Texas identified a consistent need for more accessible enrichment programs for local families, particularly opportunities that help children stay engaged, active and supported outside of school.
That feedback is shaping the organization’s growing presence in Brazos Valley, and the now established YMCA of the Brazos Valley, where it is expanding camps, youth activities and community partnerships designed to meet families where they are.
“We have a philosophy that when there is a need, we meet it,” Chief Marketing Officer Laura Arredondo said.
Programs designed for local families
Currently, the YMCA operates at two key locations: Allen Academy in Bryan and Fellowship Church in College Station. These partnerships have allowed programs to launch immediately within spaces familiar to the community, helping reduce barriers for families who may not otherwise have easy access to structured enrichment opportunities.
Together, the buildings host multiple activities, including LEGO Challenge, Let’s Get Baking and STEAM Builders Lab at Fellowship Church. There, kids can build creations, make treats, explore STEAM concepts and spark their imagination while making new friends.
At Allen Academy, campers can participate in sports, games, arts and crafts, cooking, archery, rock climbing, water days and more. The energetic staff create a safe, welcoming place, where kids build confidence, make friends and have a summer full of fun.
“We’re a YMCA without walls,” Arredondo said. “We’re providing these important programs outside of a typical branch facility.”
Ensuring programs remain accessible
As the reach of the YMCA expands, accessibility remains a top priority. To ensure cost does not prevent participation, the organization provides scholarship opportunities.
“It’s our mission to never turn anyone away due to one’s inability to pay,” Arredondo said. “We make sure that, no matter what, we are able to support everyone, regardless of any challenges they may have.”
These scholarships are funded through community fundraisers, most notably the annual clay shooting tournament. This event brings people from multiple communities together to strengthen awareness and directly fund financial assistance for Brazos Valley families.
Looking ahead
The YMCA’s long-term goal is to continue responding to the changing needs of the region as it grows.
“This is such a special community, and we’re excited about what we can do here,” Arredondo said. “We’re always looking for new ways to serve. There isn’t a challenge that is too big or too small for us to see how we can help.”
Residents can reach out to YMCA executive Mike Collins via email at [email protected] to discuss local needs or future programming.
To learn more about the YMCA of the Brazos Valley or to register for programs, click here.
The above story was produced by Senior Multi-Platform Journalist Sydney Heller with Community Impact’s Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their “sponsored content” purchase through our advertising team.