Metro Esports, a leading provider of esports programming, education, and competitions, and the YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW), a cornerstone of community development and youth enrichment, have formed a strategic partnership aimed at empowering young people through the power of gaming and healthy living. The partnership kicks off on Sept. 6 with a release party for NBA 2K25. The event is free to all in the community.
This collaboration will combine Metro Esports’ expertise in esports and STEM education, coaching, and competition with YGBW’s dedication to youth development, character building, and healthy lifestyles. Together, the organizations will offer a comprehensive range of programs and initiatives that foster personal growth, teamwork, and academic success.
The programs offered range from family-friendly gaming events to competitive esports leagues, tech-based enrichment programs, and everything in between. Upcoming programs include “Roblox Tech Adventures,” where participants will dive into the universe of Roblox and Roblox Studio, “Tech Day Off School Camp,” where children will master and learn the technical aspects of building a computer and a series of fun weekly and monthly events, free to YGBW members.
Key elements of the partnership include:
Esports Programs: Jointly developing and implementing esports programs for youth of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels, including after-school clubs, competitive teams, and educational STEM-based workshops.
Youth Development: Integrating esports into existing YMCA programs to promote leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Healthy Living: Combining esports with physical activity and wellness initiatives to encourage a balanced lifestyle for young people — with a particular focus on social/emotional health and gaming safety.
Community Engagement: Hosting esports tournaments and events to bring the community together and raise awareness locally and academically of the benefits of esports.
“We are excited to partner with the YMCA of Greater Brandywine to create opportunities for young people to explore their passions for gaming and tech while developing essential skills,” said Ari Evans, VP of Operations at Metro Esports. “This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of empowering the next generation of esports athletes, tech enthusiasts, and young leaders through our programming and STEM-based learning initiatives.”
“With its growth as both a hobby and a career, esports can be a powerful tool for youth development,” said Bertram L. Lawson II, President and CEO of YGBW. “We are thrilled to partner with Metro Esports to bring this innovative opportunity to our community. Together, we can create a positive and inclusive environment where young people can thrive.”
About Metro Esports
Metro Esports is a premier destination for esports enthusiasts and gamers, providing a state-of-the-art esports facility experience. It is dedicated to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and exciting environment where gamers of all ages can come together to enjoy their favorite video games, meet friends, participate in programs, and pursue different S.T.E.A.M. pathways. The Metro Esports facility features an array of next-gen gaming consoles, Gaming PCs, and dedicated spaces designed to deliver an exceptional gaming experience. The company’s mission is to attract, engage, entertain, and educate a broad and diverse community of gaming and technology enthusiasts. Two goals drive Metro: to create access and build bridges. It creates access by understanding how to engage all demographics within the gaming space, then leverages that knowledge to craft experiences that welcome them and cultivate their talents.
Learn more at the YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW), an association of nine YMCAs and Program Centers serving Chester County. YGBW is a leading non-profit organization committed to building a community that strives to nurture the potential of every child, promote healthy living, and foster social responsibility through life-changing programs for all.
