Registration for popular summer program set for May 22

GUSTINE – Summer is just around the corner and so is Gustine’s popular Y-Lead program, which offers an array of recreational, educational and leadership programs to local youth.

The program has been expanded to serve more youngsters than ever before – although participants will be asked to pay a $40 fee to help cover the costs of a program that was offered at no charge until last year.

“The $40 fee will help us with snack costs and activities, so that we can have a better all-around program,” noted Stephanie Gomes, who is the Y-Lead adviser this year. “The $40 fee covers a seven-week program. I think it is well worth it.”

The program charged a $10 fee last year to cover the cost of shirts.

City Manager Margaret Silveira, in her staff report to the City Council, noted that the fee will allow a greater number of youngsters to participate than if Y-Lead were fully subsidized.

Last year, about 72 youngsters took part in Y-Lead. Plans call for the program to serve 100 Y-Leaders this summer.

Gomes said the organization’s “junior captain” program is also being expanded this summer.

Given the popularity of the program, Gomes reflected, she believes Y-Lead will fill its allocated slots.

“I think there are a lot of students who really want to get involved and have a great summer like last year,” she explained. “The program is a lot of fun, and it builds friendships. We are going to be focusing on teamwork and leadership, and we want to get as involved in the community as possible.

Families with financial hardship may qualify for scholarships to offset the Y-Lead participation fee.

“We want to make sure every child has the opportunity to participate in Y-Lead,” Silveira stated.

Even with the $40 fee, Y-Lead remains a program largely subsidized by the city’s utility user tax fund.

This year, according to staff reports, the Y-Lead budget is nearly $44,000.

The participation fee is expected to generate $3,000 to $4,000.

Y-Lead has been a huge success story since it was first established in 2002.

At that time, the program served about 40 Y-Leaders and operated on a budget of $12,800.

“I was one of the skeptics when the program started, but I think it has been an amazing program,” said Mayor Rich Ford. “I would like to see it get as big as it can.”

Other council members also spoke highly of Y-Lead.

“It is a good way to introduce the kids to how the city works,” commented Joe Oliveira. “It is a valuable program.”

Y-Lead is open to boys and girls who will be entering grades 4-7 next year.

Registration will be held Thursday, May 22, from 5-8 p.m. at Henry Miller Park.

Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian when signing up.

Gomes, who will be assisted by Amanda Hensley, said the advisors and team captains are looking forward to the summer program.

Gomes has been involved in Y-Lead for six years, and has seen the program grow and evolve.

“I believed in Y-Lead from the beginning, and I have seen how the kids have responded and enjoyed it so much,” she reflected. “Y-Lead gives kids something to look forward to during the summer. They build a lot of bonds through the program.”