More than 900 children will receive free summer camp from at least 11 different programs
On Saturday, March 23, we will host the second annual Summer Youth Expo on the grounds of FAMU Developmental Research School, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. This family-friendly event is designed to be a “one-stop shop” showcase to connect families to low and no-cost summer enrichment camps for children, grades K-8. At least 11 of the participating camps will offer FREE tuition for qualifying students for the duration of summer.
“We know that many working families do not have access to programs, leaving too many youth without a safe place to go or thrive while parents work during the summer,” explained Zandra Glenn, CSC Leon Chair. “All children in Leon County, regardless of what neighborhood they live in, should be able to participate in educational and recreational opportunities that help close the learning gap. This investment will help us achieve that by creating equitable access to high quality programs.”
On March 7, CSC Leon approved $1.7M in funding to serve more than 900 children in 11 different programs. Children must be rising Kindergarten through 12th grade and residents of Leon County to qualify for the free camps. Priority will be given to families who live in specific neighborhoods. Slots are available on a first come, first served basis and may require a small registration fee to hold a spot. Families who receive the free summer camps must agree to participate in their chosen camp all summer.
Families can learn about each of the participating summer programs (listed below in alphabetical order) by visiting https://summeryouthexpo.org/ or meeting directly with programs during Saturday’s Expo.
- Boys and Girls Clubs of the Big Bend
- Brownsville Preparatory Institute
- Citizens for a Sustainable Future Inc.
- Creative Mind Solutions Inc.
- Diamonds in the Rough Sports, Entertainment & Education, Inc.
- Franklin Academy Inc.
- Institute for Music Business, LLC
- Omega Lamplighters, Inc.
- Reach One Youth Organization, Inc.
- Tallahassee Nights Live Performing Arts Foundation
- The Foundation for Leon County Schools
In addition to these, the Summer Youth Expo will include 16 other programs and providers offering supports to families this summer. (Access the full list on the Summer Youth Expo page)
“By bringing together a diverse range of programs and supports under one roof, the Summer Youth Expo will give families a comprehensive view of what is available and empower them to ask questions, learn more, and make informed decisions about which programs align with their child’s interests and needs,” CSC Leon Executive Director Cecka Rose Green shared.
While the majority of programs are focused on families with elementary and middle school aged children, CSC Leon is also using the Expo to launch its Summer Youth Internship in partnership with North Florida Worlds of Work. This program will match rising 10th-12th graders and recent graduates with local businesses for an 8-week, paid internship. Up to 60 youth will gain real-world work experience and explore different career paths.
Ms. Green continued, “When we put our kids first, we inspire and motivate them to pursue their passions and create opportunities for families to thrive.”
The Summer Youth Expo will occur rain or shine on Saturday, March 23, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the FAMU DRS Gymnasium. Food trucks, games, and more will be available. If families need transportation assistance, please email summeryouthexpo@cscleon.org.