First YMCA Tomorrow Academy now enrolling students in Four Points

The academy uses the YMCA’s Constellation of Care model, which includes enrichment programs, such as family wellness, health and nutrition, safety, hygiene, and parent-teacher engagement.

Classes at the academy will begin in March, as stated on its website.

In September, the Schmetterling Foundation gifted $3 million to support the opening of YMCA’s first Tomorrow Academy.

“We would not be here today if not for the generosity of Colleen and Jim Clark of The Schmetterling Foundation, whose $3 million gift made this possible,” said Kathy Kuras, president and CEO of the Greater Austin YMCA. “They are transformational leaders and philanthropists, supporting one of the most important life-changing experiences—getting a strong start in life through quality early education.”

“I’m hoping that it provides a lot of working families that otherwise wouldn’t be able to access child care,” Duchen said.

District 6 council member Krista Laine said she is impressed with the private philanthropy showing up to meet the public needs of the community.

With the completion of Phase 1 of the project, Kuras said plans for the outdoor and indoor portions of the YMCA in Four Points are being discussed, and the project timeline is expected to be completed in 24 months.

However, Kuras said the opening of the next phases are dependent on community support.

“Over the past 18 months, we’ve gathered input on what the community needs, with affordable, high-quality child care rising to the top of the list,” Kuras said. “But we also know that we will need to raise an additional $12 million to bring the full community vision to life. That is where the Y is asking for help and rallying of the community.”

Community members can look forward to drop-in care; parent-child co-play opportunities; a coworking lounge; and STEM, art and cooking spaces.

• Opened Jan. 24, classes begin in March
• 8300 N. RM 620, Austin
• www.austinymca.org/childcare/tomorrow-academy