What is the Community Youth Center?   

The Community Youth Center (CYC) is a state-of-the-art sports and academic center where youth ages 3 to 18 come to learn and thrive in a dynamic and positive environment. CYC is different than other youth centers in that it is not a drop-in day care facility or an after-school youth meeting place. Students must be enrolled in one of the 10 sports programs or be working on academics during their time at the Center. CYC promotes structure, discipline and order in a young person’s life.

Why did the CYC Open?

Ken Hofmann had the vision and a one million dollar gift from The K.H. Hofmann Foundation started the process in 1995. Today the CYC is a state-of-the-art youth sports and academic complex. The Center was founded to help address growing concerns regarding cutbacks in youth programs at a time when young people were being forced to deal with problems like gangs, drugs and crime. Unfortunately, those problems and concerns still exist today. However, the CYC has helped many kids over the past 12 years, and willingly continues to do so today. The CYC believes that through controlled sports training and education augmentation, today’s youth can develop key character traits to better themselves.

How is the CYC Funded?

The K.H. Hofmann Foundation, along with other private fundraising efforts, continues to support the CYC each year. The CYC holds three major annual fundraisers, in addition to smaller program fundraising events. For the first time in 2007, CYC initiated an annual giving campaign titled “Drive for Discipline, Dedication and Desire.” 

What sports or programs are offered?

CYC offers recreational programs in boxing, wrestling, judo, taekwondo, gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics, dance, cheerleading and sport specific conditioning. It also offers an outdoor activities program where students can take excursions to various points of interest throughout the Bay Area and Northern California to learn more about the environment and what they can do to preserve it. All of this is augmented with the Academic Excellence Center where students can do homework on their own, or get help from tutors. 

Does CYC offer any team opportunities or have any Summer Camps?

The CYC offers competitive team training opportunities in several of the sports programs for those hoping to excel at a higher level. And, in addition to regularly scheduled classes, camps are offered throughout the summer in all 10 programs. 

What would a typical week be like?

The CYC can often be thought of as a “mall.” Many members take advantage of the CYC model and participate in multiple programs. CYC classes run continuously, year-round. For example, on Monday a member can complete homework immediately after school from 3 to 4 p.m. Then take a Taekwondo class from 4 to 4:45 p.m., and follow up with time in the weight room from 5 to 6 p.m. On Tuesday that same member may take three entirely different classes, or perhaps spend more time on their academics. Schedules are flexible for children, and variety helps prevent staleness or burnout with a single program. Youth should be encouraged to participate in multiple activities to diversely develop their motor skills. Participating in multiple enriching activities at a young age will set foundations for healthy lifestyles going forward. 

How qualified is the CYC coaching staff?

The CYC has both full-time and part-time coaches with extensive experience in their respective sports fields. You can learn more about the coaching staff by visiting each program page on the website and clicking on the “Coach Profile.” The coaches work together with program directors to develop the child’s athletic ability, but more importantly, to teach the intangibles such as discipline, dedication and desire. 

How much does it cost?

It only costs $20 for an all-inclusive CYC membership. There are no individual class fees and classes run continuously throughout the year. The CYC also offers family discounts and scholarships for those unable to afford the monthly membership fees. For certain advanced competitive programs, there are increased training dues added to the monthly fees. These costs are still a fraction of most private costs, and also can be waived for those needing financial assistance. Cost should never prevent a child in need from participating in CYC programs.

How many CYC members are there?

Currently there are more than 1200 CYC members. On any given day 340 student athletes may be participating in classes.

What is the Academic Excellence Center?

The AE program is designed to better students academically and socially. Once involved in a sports program, the CYC helps students balance their educational and sports activities by providing an environment suitable for homework and educational activities. It is an independent study classroom with tutors available. CYC staff stresses the importance of an education on a consistent, supportive and daily basis. 

What is Outdoor Activities?

The CYC Outdoor Activities program is designed to provide youth with a rare opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors and all its benefits. The CYC aspires to give kids an appreciation for nature and teach them the importance of its conservation and further preservation. The CYC staff is able to accomplish these goals with the use of Rancho Esquon, the ‘Flying A’ Boat, Grizzly Island, Camp Concord and Camp Nejedly. All of these locations and entities are available to give boys and girls a natural environment in which to explore and learn.