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Afterschool Care at the James Family Prescott YMCA is the proud recipient of the Commitment to Quality Award of Excellence, presented by the Arizona Center for Afterschool Excellence during the School’s Out, Make It Count Conference on October 19, 2024, in Phoenix.
YMCA Afterschool Care was nominated for the award after extensive program evaluation followed by a comprehensive site visit earlier this year. Nominations from across Arizona were reviewed by an independent panel of judges, and finalists were required to present letters of support from parents, colleagues, and students, along with relevant documentation to demonstrate their commitment to quality out-of-school time programming.
Receiving the award is a great honor for Afterschool Care at the James Family Prescott YMCA and follows successful program accreditation earlier this year by the Arizona Center for Afterschool Excellence Pathway to Accreditation.
“Achieving program accreditation and receiving the Commitment to Quality Award of Excellence highlight the value of our work with youth in Prescott,” said Damon Olsen, Chief Executive Officer, YMCA of Yavapai County. “We want to benchmark our program to other successful programs across Arizona. We want to learn and share best practices. And we want our families and youth to be fully engaged in a structured program that supports healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.”
YMCA Afterschool Care serves children and youth from age 5 in kindergarten to 12 years of age. The program is designed to promote the social, emotional, physical, intellectual, and recreational needs of school-age students.
“We believe everyone should have access to affordable, high-quality Afterschool Care, regardless of their financial situation,” said Lesley Jenkins, Executive Director, James Family Prescott YMCA. “We offer financial assistance to families in need and provide school aged care at no cost for students when school is out-of-session, including Veteran’s Day, the holidays, spring break, and summer break.”
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.
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.
