YMCA Training at a Glance

Training at a GlanceYMCA staff have access to a variety of trainings, offered at locations across the country,throughout out the year. Five levels of training are available:

Level Description
Basic Work with Y members/participants.
Instructor Teach Y members and participants.
Director Administer a program and train staffmembers/volunteers from your own Y.
Trainer Train and certify staff members/volunteers from any Y in a specific basic, instructor or director-level course.
Faculty Train and certify staff members/volunteers from any Y in a specific trainer-level course.

YMCA staff may obtain leadership/management certifications, which can help YMCA professionals advance within the movement and, in some cases, may be required for advancement. Leadership/management certifications levels are:

In addition to classes and trainings, Professional Directors and Senior Directors have access to a 10-month Executive Development Institute and first-time CEOs attend the New CEO Institute in Chicago.

Executive Development Institute

The YMCA Executive Development Institute enables YMCA senior directors and professional directors to explore, perfect and develop problem-solving, management and leadership skills that prepare them for YMCA branch and corporate executive positions.

The program offers participants another opportunity for advanced training that enhances personal and professional growth.

Executive Academy Program

The YMCA Executive Academy Program (YEAP) is a seven-month staff developmental opportunity which provides individuals with a better understanding of the skills, knowledge and competencies necessary to be an effective Executive Director.

New Chief Executive Officer Institute

The new CEO Institute is a five-day training program for the first-time CEO that focuses on the functions considered critical to successful executive leadership. The institute is offered twice a year - once in the spring and once in the fall - and is held at the YMCA of the USA headquarters in Chicago to give participants an understanding of the resources and support available through the national office. Experienced CEOs from across the country are gathered with key members of the national staff to make up a training team that is both knowledgeable in the subject matter and sensitive to the needs of the first-time CEO.

Issues covered include executive priorities, strategic planning, volunteer leadership, computer tools for better management, human resources management and development, property and risk management, today's legal environment, fiscal management and financial development.