Description
Youth in middle school (grades 6-8) or just entering middle school (grades 4-5) are a key segment of our population. They are at a critical age in the formation of their identity. Strategic questions for YMCAs include: How are YMCAs engaging this population? How do youth respond to the YMCA's fitness and nutrition messages?

Action Research Has Delivered
-In-depth interviews of 7th grade participants and non-participants for the NJ YMCA Alliance
-End-of-year survey of members

Research Highlights
-Marketing to this group is an untapped opportunity
-Health & nutrition programming, combined with meeting the need for after-school snacks, could make a difference in childhood fitness, nutrition and obesity
-Programming needs to extend beyond access to fitness equipment
-Engaging staffs is a critical success factor in reaching this segment