What We’re Seeing
In San Diego County, the cost of living continues to rise and too many households are cost-burdened, leaving little room for emergencies or long-term goals.
Economic stability requires more than employment – it requires pathways to higher wages, career growth, and access to the supports that make work possible.
When individuals and families lack stable housing, child care, transportation, or food security, it becomes harder to pursue education and career advancement, and harder to sustain long-term financial security.
THE Y'S ROLE
At the Y, we support economic stability by connecting individuals and families to resources and pathways that reduce barriers and build long-term security. This includes education and employment services, skill-building opportunities, financial assistance, and basic needs support.
Through grant-funded programs and partnerships, we help align supports like child care, transportation, and benefits so people can pursue career growth without sacrificing basic needs — strengthening stability for families and communities.
As one of the county’s top 10 employers — and for many, a first job — the Y also plays a role in creating local economic opportunity, offering meaningful work experience, skill development, and pathways into the workforce.
PROGRAMS & SERVICEs
- Education & Employment Programs
- Direct Cash Transfer Program
- Skill-Building Workshops
- Child Care Financial Assistance
- Youth Drop-In Centers
- YMCA Scholarships
OUR VISION FOR change
FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
Young people deserve access to career pathways that offer stability, growth, and opportunity. Investments in workforce development and education help young people build skills, increase earning potential, and move toward long-term economic independence.
FOR FAMILIES
Families need access to essentials like housing, food security, child care, transportation, and benefits that make stability possible while pursuing career growth. When parents can work without sacrificing basic needs, long-term economic security is more achievable.
FOR PROFESSIONALS
Workforce development professionals play a key role in helping people set career goals, access resources, and explore pathways to financial mobility. They need strong training and tools to guide individuals in setting goals, navigating career opportunities, and securing stable employment.
FROM INSIGHTS TO IMPACT
We pair on-the-ground experience with meaningful data to share what’s working, elevate community voice, and inform policies that strengthen our community's economic prosperity.
YFS IMPACT REPORT
(FY 2024-2025)
Learn how YMCA Youth & Family Services supports children, youth, and families to strengthen stability, connection, and opportunity.
CRS CHILD CARE SUBSIDY EXPERIENCE SURVEY RESULTS
Learn more about the positive impacts YMCA Childcare Resource Services’ distribution of child care subsidies have on families ability to work and increase their earnings.