At the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City, our Teen Leadership department helps young people grow into confident, compassionate leaders. One of the standout programs that make that happen is Y-CORPS, a unique, service-learning and community engagement experience that combines giving back with exploration and adventure.
Y-CORPS is one of five Teen Leadership programs at the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City. It’s designed to inspire teens through service to others, cultural education, and hands-on experiences. Participants get the chance to step outside their comfort zones (and hometowns!), build meaningful connections and see firsthand how communities across the country are supported by the YMCA.
“These trips allow you to see so many wonderful places and broaden your view on the world,” said one participant. “They foster connections unlike any others.”
An “Enchanting” Journey
This summer, Y-CORPS students embarked on a trip to New Mexico, nicknamed “The Land of Enchantment.” The group spent most of their time in and around Santa Fe, America’s oldest capital city with a long history and rich cultural heritage. The trip offered our teens a blend of service work opportunities and cultural immersion and exploration.
While on their trip, the teens brought the spirit of the Y to life by:
- Creating canvases to liven up the space of a brand-new YMCA facility in Albuquerque.
- Visiting the Family Y and Teen Center in Los Alamos, where they connected directly with their peers and local community members.
- Seeing how each YMCA is uniquely positioned to serve its community while still remaining rooted in a shared purpose.
These experiences and many other broadened students’ perspectives and deepened their appreciation for diverse cultures and communities. Our staff who run this program also see the powerful transformation that happens. “Y-CORPS is an amazing program that allows you to see firsthand the importance of giving back and how to support your community,” said JoJo Woods, Senior Program Director. “It’s a fun way to make new friends and maybe see a part of the U.S. you’ve never experienced before—and of course, it’s fun!”
Through every project, trip, and interaction, teens are learning that leadership starts with service, and that’s something that stays with them long after the trip ends and they come home.
Want to learn more about Y-CORPS or get your teen involved?
- Visit ymcaokc.org/teen-y-corps
- Email: JWoods@ymcaokc.org
And don’t forget to follow along on all the department’s big adventures:
- Facebook: YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City – Teen Leadership
- Instagram: @ymcaokcteens
