Want more about how to join a Y Guides Crew? Learn here!
Y Guides has served dads and kids throughout the Triangle Area for more than 50 years. Our goal is to foster stronger relationships between dads, sons and daughters by providing them with one-on-one experiences that allow them to learn new skills and develop lifelong memories together. How is this all made possible? It starts by creating safe spaces for dads and kids to bond.
In Y Guides, we create safe spaces by building small groups called “Crews” that allow groups of dads and kids to enjoy their Y Guides experience together. Crews meet at parks, recreation centers, local YMCAs, in each other’s homes, or out and about on special Crew outings a handful of times each month. It is through these small communities that Y Guides pairs are able to build relationships with peers, mentors, and mentees. Time spent with the Crew is where the Y Guides “Magic” is created. Crewmates build safe spaces for one another to be brave, be vulnerable, experience joy, try new things, be challenged, and grow as citizens of the world.
Throughout the Y Guides experience, Crews are encouraged to spend time together sharing stories, singing songs, playing games, building crafts, camping out and much, much more; all while working their way through a Y Guides curriculum that challenges participants to learn lessons on caring, honesty, respect and responsibility, building stronger spirits, minds and bodies, and working together in service to strengthen the foundations of our community. These life lessons learned help Y Guides Crews to create safe spaces for the community at large.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Y Guides Crews have been asked to partner together to maintain safe spaces in brand-new ways. During the 2020-21 Y Guides program year, we’ve adapted and innovated to provide safe, meaningful and experiences for dads and kids in creative ways. We proudly provided countless virtual events throughout the year, as well as more than 30 safe, in-person overnight experiences.
As we continue to work toward a return to our newer and even better “normal,” Y Guides will continue to strive to build safe spaces for all who touch the program’s path. If you’re new to the Y Guides program, learn more about how you can join in on the fun for the 2021-22 program year. And if you’re a returning Y Guides veteran, we can’t wait to see you again soon! Thanks for your continued partnership in creating safe spaces that help dads and kids grow and learn… TOGETHER.