The Y Wellbeing Initiative at the Greater Scranton YMCA is a bold and compassionate response to the growing need for accessible mental, emotional, and behavioral health support in our community. Rooted in the Y’s core mission to build healthy spirits, minds, and bodies for all, the initiative delivers innovative, trauma-informed, and evidence-based programming that nurtures the resilience and wellbeing of youth, families, and adults throughout Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties.

Since its inception, the Y Wellbeing Initiative has served more than 10,000 individuals through workshops, afterschool programming, summer enrichment, specialized instruction, mindfulness practices, case management, and community care coordination. Informed by leading practices and national standards, the Y Wellbeing Initiative currently offers:

• Violence Prevention & Intervention Programs
Through funding from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), the Y provides mentoring, social-emotional learning (SEL), yoga, and mindfulness for at-risk youth and adults. These programs are delivered both on-site and in schools and community organizations, helping individuals develop healthy relationships, emotional regulation skills, and confidence.

• Mental Health Access & Navigation
Supported by the Moses Taylor Foundation, the Caring Communities for Mental Health Program offers free, community-based mental health services. Our dedicated Community Care Worker supports individuals by providing personalized case management, referrals to appropriate care, and evidence-based programming such as COPE and R1 Learning. This program reduces barriers to care and increases service accessibility for underserved populations.

• Out-of-School Time Enrichment (BOOST Program)
Designed for children ages 6–18, BOOST provides free afterschool and summer programming that integrates SEL, character development, and pro-social skill-building. Programs are offered at the YMCA and at partner sites such as schools and nonprofit organizations.

• Evidence-Based Curriculum & Professional Development
Rooted in Y-USA’s Mental Health Community Care Model, our team implements proven curricula including Second Step, Too Good for Violence, COPE, R1 Learning, L.E.A.D. Camp Mental Health, and Breathe for Change, equipping participants and staff alike with tools for emotional intelligence, stress management, and positive decision-making.

• Community Partnerships
With over 79 active partners—including school districts, health providers, advocacy groups, and law enforcement—the Y Wellbeing Initiative fosters a network of support and shared responsibility for community health. Backed by national leadership in youth development and social responsibility, the Greater Scranton YMCA’s Y Wellbeing Initiative is committed to addressing the root causes of community trauma, advancing health equity, and building safe, supportive environments where all people can thrive.

To learn more or get involved, please contact Y Wellbeing Initiative Program Director, Kevin Whelley.