#USA #Chicago #Lilly Endowment #YMCA #Y-USA

YMCA of the USA Expands Character Development Initiative

The YMCA of the USA (Y-USA) has recently announced the relaunch of its Character Development Learning Initiative, branded as CDLI+. This exciting program is designed to foster positive character traits in young people across the United States. With an impressive investment of $30 million from Lilly Endowment Inc., the Y-USA aims to expand impactful character development programs throughout its network of locations.

Overview of CDLI+

CDLI+ builds on the foundation of the original Character Development Learning Institute, which faced interruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The revitalized initiative will be implemented in more than 450 YMCA locations nationwide, targeting the engagement of 400,000 youth by 2029. The initiative focuses on integrating research-driven practices and inclusive methodologies to enhance youth character-building skills.

The funding from Lilly Endowment is part of a larger strategy to support various youth-serving organizations in their efforts to develop character in young people. This grant allows Y-USA to drive significant change within communities, reinforcing the Y’s dedication to enhancing the growth and wellbeing of youth.

Key Objectives and Strategies

Y-USA has outlined several core objectives that the CDLI+ initiative aims to achieve:

• - Strengthen Adult Practices: Training for YMCA staff and volunteers will be a major priority, focusing on modeling key traits such as empathy, emotion management, and leadership. The goal is to create supportive environments conducive to the development of these skills.
• - Expand Program Reach: By the end of 2029, the initiative aims to involve 400,000 youth in character-building activities, with metrics in place to measure positive outcomes from participation.
• - Ensure Equitable Impact: The Y's commitment to equity will be embedded within all program aspects. This aims to cultivate inclusive environments that reflect the diverse backgrounds of participants.

Suzanne McCormick, President and CEO of Y-USA, remarked on the impact of Lilly Endowment's funds, stating that "through CDLI+, we are expanding the Y's capacity to prepare young people for success in school, careers, and life."

Ted Maple from Lilly Endowment emphasized the importance of character development, noting the Endowment’s long-standing commitment to projects that enhance youth character, vital for their future roles as community members.

A Vision for the Future

The CDLI+ initiative is expected to set a precedent as the largest national character development program of its kind, with plans to train around 35,000 adult practitioners across various communities. This reinforces Y-USA’s leadership in character development, aiming to cultivate resilience, integrity, and leadership among youth for generations.

For over 175 years, the YMCA has played a pivotal role in community development, supporting individuals regardless of background, and it seeks to continue this mission through programs like CDLI+ that promote positivity among youth. By engaging diverse communities and focusing on health, wellbeing, and empowerment, the Y is dedicated to creating lasting change nationwide.

In conclusion, the relaunch of the Character Development Learning Initiative signifies a monumental step forward for the YMCA of the USA and its efforts to shape the character and futures of young people across the United States. Through strategic partnerships and dedicated support, Y-USA is poised to make a profound difference in the lives of many youth throughout the country.