Empowered Futures Program

Now enrolling for Winter & Spring 2027!

The Granite YMCA’s Empowered Futures program, a Childcare Apprenticeship in Partnership with the ReGen Valley Tech Hub, is dedicated to tackling New Hampshire’s childcare shortage and building a stronger community by developing the next generation of early childhood education and youth development professionals.

This highly immersive 10-12 week program offers hands-on learning opportunities across various settings, providing you with intentional training and courses, peer discussions, and real-world application. You’ll gain invaluable experience while working with children from infants as young as 12 weeks to school-aged youth. During the summer months, we also offer a specialized program for those interested in summer camp leadership and school age childcare.

Frequently Asked Questions

This program is an excellent opportunity for individuals who meet the following criteria:

  • A desire to enhance professional development and/or advance their careers in early childhood education and youth development
  • A commitment to fostering healthy and supportive environments for children and youth
  • A desire to enhance professional development and/or advance their careers in early childhood education, summer camp leadership, school-aged childcare, or before and after school childcare
  • A commitment to fostering healthy and supportive environments for children and youth

Registration for The Granite YMCA’s Empower Futures program is open on a rolling basis, so participants may apply at any time for upcoming cohorts.

Early Learning Track Cohort Dates:

  • Winter 2027: January 4 – March 12, 2027 (Registration closes January 1, 2027)
  • Spring 2027: March 18 – May 28 2027 (Registration closes March 12, 2027)
  • Summer 2027: June 17 – August 27, 2027 (Registration closes June 11, 2027)

Summer Camp Leadership & School Age Track Cohort Dates:

  • Summer 2027: May 27 – August 20, 2027 (Registration closes May 21, 2027)

Please note that registration closes the Friday before each cohort begins, but spaces may fill sooner. Apply early to secure your spot!

Empowered Futures participants will receive:

  • Comprehensive training with professionals in the field
  • Real-world experience through personalized and diverse program placements
  • Collaborative work with The Granite YMCA community and a supportive cohort of up to 14 individuals
  • Professional portfolio development including NH Credentials
  • Networking opportunities that can lead to full-time employment in the field

Summer Camp Leadership & School Age Track participants will receive:

  • Comprehensive training with professionals in the field
  • Real-world experience through personalized and diverse program placements
  • Collaborative work with The Granite YMCA community and a supportive cohort of up to 6 individuals
  • Day Camp Director Certificate through the American Camp Association
  • Professional portfolio development including NH Credentials support
  • Networking opportunities that can lead to fulltime employment in the field

Please note that participants must either be brand new to or returning to the childcare/out-of-school fields after a break.

Empowered Futures Program Benefits:

  • Competitive pay ranging from $18 – $20 per hour
  • Approximately 35 hours of work per week, with a commitment of 10 – 12 weeks
  • 6-Month Family Membership to The Granite YMCA
  • Childcare assistance
  • Transportation support
  • CPR and First-Aid Certification
  • Required technology provided upon request

Summer Camp Leadership & School Age Track benefits:

  • Competitive pay ranging from $16 – $17 per hour
  • Approximately 35 hours of work per week, with a commitment of 12 weeks
  • 6-Month Family Membership to The Granite YMCA
  • Childcare assistance
  • Transportation support
  • CPR and First-Aid Certification
  • Required technology provided upon request
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For More Information

The Granite YMCA Empowered Futures Program

603.232.8683
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