A Summer of Possibilities

New Summer Scholarship Opportunities to Make Summer at The Y a Possibility For All

This summer, our YMCA is ensuring more community members than ever before have the opportunity to join The Y community. Removing barriers to belonging, essential programs, and services offered here at The Y is at the core of our mission. Thanks to our generous community and benefactors, we are removing more barriers to belonging so everyone can enjoy their summer in community.

The Santa Monica Family YMCA is honored to be one of eight YMCAs across Los Angeles County receiving support from Ballmer Group, in partnership with the California State Alliance of YMCAs to provide summer programs for youth impacted by wildfires. This $2.5 million investment will help ensure that more children and teens across our communities have access to safe, supportive spaces where they can recover, reconnect, and thrive! From the lasting impact of resident camp at Camp Big Bear, friendships built and interests explored at Summer Day Camp, to the confidence- and character-building experience in our Junior Lakers Youth Basketball Program or Swim Lessons, this funding creates an opportunity for the youth impacted by the fires to get back to what’s important – being a kid! 

At The Santa Monica Family YMCA, we remain committed to showing up for youth and families in need, not just during emergencies but through every step of their journey. This funding creates unlimited possibilities for the youth in our community, especially for those who have been resilient through unimaginable challenges at the start of this year. We are grateful to Ballmer Group for helping us make a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most.

This funding comes at a critical time, helping ensure that kids in fire-affected communities have access to safe, fun, and supportive spaces this summer. YMCAs across California stepped up during the fires to meet urgent needs and are continuing to provide programs that help children and families move forward. This expanded partnership reflects the deep trust Ballmer Group has in the YMCA’s ability to serve communities in meaningful and lasting ways. Together we are creating opportunities for youth to heal, reconnect, and thrive.

We are deeply grateful to Ballmer Group for standing with us and for believing in the power of our local YMCAs to bring hope and opportunity to the youth who need it most.

Our YMCA is working to connect the families in need with this opportunity. Working in collaboration with local nonprofits, including the Santa Monica Boys & Girls Club, American Red Cross, Community Corps, Safe Place for Youth, and the Salvation Army, we are working to connect directly with families impacted by the Los Angeles Fires; but we want to reach more people. We encourage anyone impacted by the fires to complete the form below. Our team will reach out to see how The Y can support you this summer.