Find a Summer Program Today

Search 100+ to find a fit for your child’s interest and your schedule

  • For kids ages 4 to 18
  • Indoor/outdoor in-person and virtual options available
  • Activities include sports, arts, science and match, & more
  • Providers in Wayne, Oakland, & Macomb counties
  • Free and low-cost offerings
Youth Development Resource Center logo

Why Youth Programs Matter

Afterschool activities and summer programming lifts up the skills youth need to succeed in school, careers, and in life. It gives children and youth opportunities to:

Spark a new interest

in robotics or music

Offer youth-centered space

and sense of belonging

Build academic motivation

and social-emotional skills

Be in a safe place

while parents are at work

Get connected

to caring adults

Skills Improvement

Youth increased their skills by participating in Detroit youth development programs, according to YDRC research.

Belonging

  • 56% 56%

56% of students improved relationships with peers and adults. 

Learning

  • 73% 73%

73% of students improved academic motivation, interesting in learning, critical thinking, and school bonding.

Learning

  • 72% 72%

73% of students improved academic motivation, interesting in learning, critical thinking, and school bonding.

Leading

  • 71% 71%

71% of students improved perseverance, assertiveness, action orientation, reflection, optimism, empathy, trust, and emotion control.

What to Look For in a quality program

Is the physical environment clean? Does it have adequate facilities for basic needs (water, restrooms, etc.)?

Are there positive relationships between staff and youth that include everyone knowing each other’s names?

Are activities focused on learning and building skills in a fun, active way that youth will enjoy?

Highlighted Programs

Learn more about afterschool activity and summer program options.

Ready for It: Active and Social Kids’ Programs

Ready for It: Active and Social Kids’ Programs

Crystal Love and her 3-year-old son, Jaxon, were ready for fall. After months of being at home, they quickly signed-up for several kids’ programs at Franklin Athletic Club. “He’s in yoga and gymnastics and is taking swim lessons,” Crystal says. “Jaxon also attends the...

A Meaningful Experience: Culinary Arts and Youth Leadership

A Meaningful Experience: Culinary Arts and Youth Leadership

Senior Azaria Bailey loves to cook. It is what drew her to the Detroit Food Academy afterschool program four years ago. The class convened (pre-COVID) at her school for a couple hours after school once a week. This year gave her pause. How do you take a group cooking...

Additional United Way Resources

Meet up and eat up

Find your summer meal site, kid-friendly recipes and other tips to keep your family healthy and happy.

2-1-1 Helpline

Talk to a community care advocate by dialing 2-1-1 to find referrals for food, shelter, medical assistance and more.

Early Childhood

Find parenting resources to help your child establish a foundation for lifelong learning.

 

Ready to find

 

 

Your child's program?

 

Promote your programs

To add your program to the Discover Your Spark program finder, or to update your current listing, please visit our provider page.

Pin It on Pinterest