The YMCA has long been the nation's leading nonprofit provider of childcare programs, which are foundational to our commitment to support and strengthen families and nurture the potential of every child we serve. The TN YMCAs believe all young people should get the support they need to thrive.
Childcare and Child Protection are both Strategic Priorities of the TN State Alliance and invaluable parts of the work of the YMCA. In 2023, TN YMCA engaged more than 180,000 youth in YMCA programs and cared for more than 127,000 children in childcare programs.
The TN YMCAs believe Child Protection is EVERYONE’S job and therefore have committed to having at least one Certified Praesidium Guardian at each YMCA Association. Our Guardians are charged with creating or implementing abuse prevention strategies within their YMCA. To date, there are 38 Guardians currently working in TN YMCAs to reduce the risk of abuse and ensure a safer environment for all involved.
