OUR STORY
It all began in 1949 … Bing Crosby funded the building and establishment of the Carmel Youth Center for the city of Carmel. Bing funded the Center while he was living in Pebble Beach, and eventually helped create over two hundred private, non-profit youth centers. Of those two hundred centers, the Carmel Youth Center is the only one remaining. The construction of the building was completed brick by brick by members of our community - some of which were in their youth at the time and grew up to be valued members of our Board of Directors. Over the past 75 years, what was once an empty dirt lot has transformed into a beautiful 5-story community center in the heart of Carmel By The Sea.
Bing established a culture of giving-back at the Center, a culture that continues to touch the lives of the people and children involved with our organization today. The CYC continues to be a safe nurturing environment that boosts curiosity, builds confidence, and develops the life skills kids need to thrive. We are consistently adapting our programs to meet the emerging needs of young people in our community. 40% of our youth have used scholarship funding provided by generous community members. This accomplishment speaks volumes to the commitment we have towards serving every child who walks in our doors, no matter their background.
In 2021, we launched the CYC Excursion Program and began taking the children on adventures outside of the center. This program allowed us to continue providing enriching experiences that remained in compliance with protocols. In 2022, the impact it had was much greater. We saw first hand the way these experiences were touching the lives of our youth members. We introduced them to places many of them had never been to, and gave them opportunities to explore our local areas. In 2024, we obtained licensing to become a childcare facility and we now have plans to open a Pre School Program!
As a youth development organization, the CYC provides services and leadership to meet the emerging needs of young people and their families in our community, so young people are able to acquire the skills, self-confidence, and opportunities to reach their full potential. We strive to meet kids where they are, to take kids where they need to go, and to treat everyone with respect and dignity, regardless of their differences and backgrounds.
When you become part of CYC, you’re joining a rich legacy and proud movement of teachers, parents, community, and business leaders with a shared belief: to nurture, educate and encourage kids to be responsible, civically engaged and prepared for the future.
