Y-Corps 2026

My name is Ra’Queria Beard, and I am honored to be participating in the Kentucky YMCA’s Y-Corps 2026 program—a transformative, service-learning initiative that empowers students to make a tangible difference in communities across Kentucky and beyond.

In addition to Y-Corps, I’ve had the opportunity to be involved in Kentucky YMCA programs like KUNA, where I gained global awareness and empathy through simulated international diplomacy; KYA, where I developed critical thinking and public speaking skills by participating in a model state government; and Y-Corps Service-To-North, where I got to understand the importance of service to others, travel to places I could never afford, and make genuine connections with people. With both programs I was given scholarships to help me, a financially struggling student, have the ability to go. These experiences have deeply shaped my leadership and passion for service.

Y-Corps is built upon the YMCA’s foundational values of Honesty, Caring, Respect, and Responsibility, which guide us in every aspect of the program . Through this journey, we:

• Collaborate with local organizations to address community needs.
  
  

• Raise funds to support the YMCA Scholarship Fund, ensuring more youth can access these life-changing experiences.
  
  

• Promote the mission and impact of the YMCA and Y-Corps within our communities.
  
  

To make this mission a reality, I am working to raise $600 or more by June 14th. Your support can make a significant impact. Donating to my Ycorp fund, you are not only helping me but you are helping other financially struggling students get the same scholarships and opportunities. 

Your contribution will not only support my personal growth but also extend the reach of the YMCA’s values-driven programs. I would be grateful for any support you can provide and would be happy to acknowledge your generosity on my social media platforms.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to invest in youth leadership and community service. If you would like to get a deeper understanding about Y-Corps and how you're donation helps students there is more information below:

Y‑Corps, a flagship service-learning initiative of the Kentucky YMCA Youth Association, empowers 7th–12th graders to create meaningful community impact through service, advocacy, philanthropy, and leadership development. Participating students attend a kickoff “Institute” for hands-on training in planning/direct service, fundraising, storytelling, and community partnerships. Over the course of the program, they commit to significant service hours, develop and deliver passion projects in partnership with local organizations, and build essential life skills while fostering civic responsibility . Many alumni go on to mentor through initiatives such as the Bringardner Service Corps and are recognized as lifelong change agents.

Why donate?
Supporting Y‑Corps means investing directly in future leaders who are actively addressing real-world problems in Kentucky—from food insecurity and mental-health awareness to homelessness and youth empowerment. Donations fund essential components like training sessions, fundraising platforms, and service tools, enabling more students to execute impactful projects and meet ambitious service goals. Your gift helps cultivate compassionate, responsible citizens who will continue to uplift communities across the state—and it multiplies: each dollar you give empowers a student who, in turn, mobilizes others. By donating, you're not just funding a program—you’re nurturing social change that radiates through schools, families, and neighborhoods for years to come.

The Kentucky YMCA Youth Association is a Section 501(c) (3) charitable organization, EIN 61-0444841. All donations are deemed tax-deductible absent any limitations on deductibility applicable to a particular taxpayer. No goods or services were provided in exchange for your contribution.

In 2025, KY YMCA earned certifications from the Better Business Bureau and Guidestar, and were verified under the Community Reinvestment Act.