Holiday Teen Gift Drive
The Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce is proud to support the YMCA of Silicon Valley and it's programs. This year, the Holiday Gift Drive will support the teens of the Palo Alto YMCA Middle School Expanded Learning Program.
In addition to the December 1st Chamber Annual Meeting & Holiday Gathering, you can drop off teen gifts at the following Palo Alto Chamber businesses through Wednesday, December 16, 2026:
Recommended Gifts for Middle School Teens
Tech Gadgets & Mobile Accessories
- Portable Bluetooth Speakers
- MagSafe Suction Phone Mounts
- Portable Power Banks
- LED Strip Lights & Ring Lights
Creative Kits & Complex Building
- Advanced LEGO Sets
- 3D Printing Pens
- Trendy Craft Kits
- 3D Puzzles
- Books: Age-Appropriate
Active & Casual Competitive Play
- Over-the-Door Basketball Hoops
- Board Games
- Friendship Bracelet Material
- Hemp Bracelet Materials
- Paint Sets
- Sketch and Drawing Materials
- Tabletop and Active Party Games
- Soccer Balls
- Footballs
- Basketballs
Comfort, Self-Care & Viral Trends
- Weighted or Sensory Plushies
- Vacuum-Sealed Popular Water Bottles
- Skincare & Lip Kits
- Animal Pajamas/Onesies
The Ultimate Safe Bet: Gift Cards
- Retail & Beauty: Sephora, Ulta, Target, or Amazon
- Gaming: Roblox (Robux), PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo eShop cards
- Food & Hangouts: Starbucks, Subway, or local movie theaters
About the YMCA of Silicon Valley – Palo Alto Middle School Expanded Learning Program
The YMCA of Silicon Valley proudly serves as the Expanded Learning Opportunity Program (ELO-P) provider for all three middle schools in the Palo Alto Unified School District, serving 83 middle school students across the district.
At the Y, we believe every teen deserves the opportunity to explore new experiences, discover their passions, and develop interests that will positively impact their academic success, relationships, and personal growth. We believe in developing the whole child through enriching experiences, supportive staff, and high-quality programs.
With this in mind, our programs go beyond academic support by creating opportunities for teens to learn, grow, and connect with one another. Each week, students from all three middle schools come together at the Palo Alto Family YMCA to take advantage of experiences and resources they may not otherwise have access to. Whether participating in group games, working out in our fitness center, swimming in our pool, or joining group fitness classes, teens have the opportunity to explore their interests while building friendships with students from across the district.
These connections are especially important as students prepare for their transition into high school, helping them develop relationships and a sense of belonging beyond their individual school communities.
We also introduce teens to unique learning opportunities, such as our Founder Mark entrepreneurship program. Through hands-on experiences, students explore what it takes to start and operate a business, learn to navigate challenges, and discover what it means to succeed, adapt, and learn from setbacks. All of this takes place in a safe, supportive environment where trying something new is encouraged.
At the YMCA, we believe every teen deserves access to high-quality programs and opportunities that expand their horizons. As a community, it is our responsibility to help minimize barriers and ensure all teens have the support, encouragement, and resources they need to discover their potential and take an active role in shaping their futures.