Photo: The James Family YMCA After School Care Staff – Front: Karis Dandos (left) and Hope Olsen (right), Center: Annette Howard, School Age Coordinator Back: Demian Medina (left) and Megan Coffey (right)
After School Care at the James Family Prescott YMCA has received Accreditation from the Arizona Center for Afterschool Excellence (AzCASE) after successfully completing the AzCASE Pathway to Accreditation.
The Pathway to Accreditation provides school-aged out-of-school time programs with a framework of quality standards, an online self-assessment tool, a professional guide to mentor the program, rigorous document review, and program observation to determine accreditation.
“Families in our community rely on the Y to provide a safe, affordable, and rewarding after- school experience for their children,” said Damon Olsen, CEO, YMCA of Yavapai County. “Earning this accreditation demonstrates our commitment to achieve the highest standards for our After School Care program in Prescott.”
Caring for children between Kindergarten and 12 years of age, YMCA After School Care is designed to promote the social, emotional, physical, intellectual, and recreational needs of school-age students. Weekly activities may include arts and crafts, outdoor games, sports, homework time, music and songs, indoor activities, snacks, and more.
Achieving accreditation means the Y has demonstrated excellence in the seven Arizona Quality Standards for Out-of-School Time: Safe and Healthy Environments; Positive Relationships; Intentional Programming and Activities; Equity and Inclusion; Family, School, and Community Engagement; Program Management; and Program Evaluation and Data.
Accreditation is good for three years.
“We are inspired to provide the resources our families need for after-school care,” said Rachelle Skvarek, Childcare Director, James Family Prescott YMCA. “Our team has been fully-engaged with this accreditation because they care about the children and youth in our program.”
The Arizona Center for Afterschool Excellence (AzCASE) is Arizona’s leading statewide advocate and information resource for promoting high-quality, affordable, and accessible out-of-school time programs as an essential component in the positive development of Arizona’s youth. AzCASE strives to promote accessible, high-quality expanded learning opportunities for all Arizona children and youth by focusing on professional development, advocacy, and capacity building in the out-of-school time community.
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About the Y
Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the James Family Prescott YMCA strengthens the community through programs that emphasize youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Y relies on membership and program fees, along with public and private contributions to operate programs and to fund expansion projects. As a member organization, the Y is open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay. An extensive scholarship program ensures access for kids and families who could not otherwise benefit from YMCA programs.
