As the COVID-19 pandemic stretches into the summer, many families are in need of safe and enriching activities for their children.
Following the rules and precautions put forth in the County of Sacramento’s public-health order, the City of Sacramento’s Youth, Parks, & Community Enrichment (YPCE) Department has started registering kids for its summer youth programs.
“This year’s summer camp theme is ‘Rediscover Recreation,’” said Jackie Beecham, recreation manager for the Community Enrichment Division. “Our camps are designed to engage with youth in a safe and caring environment through recreation-based activities.”
To ensure safety and help prevent the spread of COVID-19, summer camp group sizes will be reduced to allow for lower participant to staff ratios. Participants can expect to be with the same group and staff throughout the session, and participants will take part in activities that allow for physical distancing and limit shared equipment.
These camps are open for registration and will begin in early July:
- STEAM Camp: focuses on individual, hands-on activities and supervised exploration outdoors for grades 1st through 6th. 24 total sessions are available at four locations. Space is limited.
- Kids Camp and Teen Scene: provides a safe space for at-risk and under-served youth and teens to engage in recreation-based activities. 30 total sessions are available at six locations. Space is limited.
YPCE also will collaborate with other programs, community partners and organizations to bring additional enrichment opportunities that may include Artists in Residency for community collaborative art projects, socially distant field trips to city pools for recreation swim, hip hop and dance classes, sewing classes, game trucks and more.
Civic Engagement and Youth Workforce Development opportunities
In addition to summer camps, Civic Engagement and Youth Workforce Development programs are continuing with modifications, including:
- Landscape & Learning Work Based Learning Program: Eight citywide crews employing 77 Youth Aides, ages 14-17, help with park maintenance and general clean up in city parks and green spaces.
- Prime Time Teen Virtually Connected: Work readiness training program for young people 13 to 17. Participants gain critical 21st Century skills in a supportive and safe online platform this summer. Participants earn a $300 stipend.
- Summer @ Virtual City Hall, “Limited Edition”: High school incoming juniors and seniors learn virtually about local government, youth development and how to be more civically engaged in their communities. Participants earn a $350 stipend.
- Junior Giants @ Home (Virtual Program): During each four-week session, Junior Giants are introduced to the fundamentals of the game with important lessons in health, education and character development.
Additional Youth, Parks, & Community Enrichment resources:
Be sure to check out these other COVID-19 related youth resources.
- Childcare: Fee based childcare will operate at four community centers to introduce youth to a variety of recreational activities in a well-planned, nurturing environment. Available for grades K-6th.
- Scholars Playground: Online learning platform with activities and tutoring covering a variety of STEAM topics.
- Virtual Activities, Resources & Tours: Check out the City’s virtual programming page for a variety of activities, videos and tours.
- Youth Curbside Meal Distribution: Youth 18 and under can receive free meals at seven community center locations Monday through Friday. No paperwork is necessary.