B.R.A.V.E. (Wellness for Boys)

B.R.A.V.E. (Wellness for Boys)

Program Description

B.R.A.V.E. is a free eight week mental and physical wellness program for boys ages 8 to 12. Through active play and guided learning, boys explore healthy expression of emotions, resilience, friendships and value based decision making. Each session blends movement with mental and emotional skill building, offering a supportive space to grow with confidence and compassion.

8 Weeks
Free
Small Group Program
Y Membership Required: No
B.R.A.V.E. (Wellness for Boys)
Program overview

At YMCA BC, we believe boys deserve spaces where they can explore who they are and who they are becoming. B.R.A.V.E. was created to broaden the definition of wellness for boys and to challenge the narrow messages they often receive about strength, emotions and identity.

Currently offered in Kamloops, the program encourages boys to grow with confidence, curiosity and compassion while discovering what wellbeing means in all parts of their lives.

Program benefits
  • Emotional and Mental Wellness
  • Learn healthy ways to identify and express emotions
  • Build confidence through reflective activities
  • Learn tools to navigate stress and everyday challenges
  • Physical and Social Wellbeing
  • Participate in active play each session
  • Strengthen teamwork and friendship skills
  • Understand how movement supports emotional health
  • Values and Character Development
  • Explore personal values
  • Practice empathy and kindness
  • Understand accountability and responsibility
Program eligibility
  • Ages 8 to 12
  • Identify as a boy
  • No diagnosis required
  • All fitness and comfort levels welcome
Program schedule
  • Two hour sessions every week for eight weeks
  • Call us on 250 376 4771 ext. 122 or email us at mentalwellness@bc.ymca.ca (please include contact information and birth date) for session dates and registration information
Register for
B.R.A.V.E. (Wellness for Boys)
Register for this program in your region

Our youth support and development programs are offered in the regions listed below. Select a region below to learn more and receive next steps.

Kamloops Programs

Find a program in the Kamloops Region

Program FAQs

Find answers to common questions about our program below.

What does B.R.A.V.E. focus on?

B.R.A.V.E. supports boys aged 8�12 in building healthy emotional expression, resilience, and confidence through movement, group learning, and supportive conversations. The program expands the definition of wellness by strengthening physical, social, emotional, and environmental well-being.

Is there a fee or membership required?

No. B.R.A.V.E. is a free program and does not require a YMCA membership to join.

Does my child need a diagnosis or previous experience to join?

No. B.R.A.V.E. is open to boys of all fitness levels and does not require a formal diagnosis. The program is designed to be inclusive and supportive so every participant feels comfortable, capable, and welcomed.

What does a typical session include?

Each two-hour session blends physical activity with guided learning that explores emotions, friendships, stress, values, and self-care. The goal is to help boys connect with themselves and others while developing healthy coping tools they can use at home, at school, and in their communities.

Where is B.R.A.V.E. offered and how do we register?

B.R.A.V.E. is currently offered through YMCA BC�s Kamloops mental wellness programs. Families can register or request information by contacting the Mental Wellness Program Coordinator at 250-376-4771 ext. 122 or emailing mentalwellness@bc.ymca.ca

When you join the YMCA you join more than a gym. You join a community.