RIVERDALE, Md. – The youth of Prince George’s County are invited to participate in the Department of Parks and Recreation’s Safe Summer Youth Campaign with free events, activities, and programs running all summer long.
The initiative is designed to provide teens and pre-teens from ages 10-17 with an array of programming, activities, and events this season to empower and inspire the youth to go outside for recreation in safe spaces, according to the press release.
The Safe Summer Campaign will run from Memorial weekend through Labor Day at the department’s parks, pools, and community centers throughout the county.
Each program provides a nurturing environment where the youth can thrive, explore new interests, and build valuable skills in their activity of interest, whether it be swimming, sports, or volunteering.
The program is intended to avert the youth from committing crimes by offering safe, productive opportunities to keep them engaged and not idle during the summer, according to the Media Relations Spokesperson of the Department of Parks and Recreation, Angel Waldron.
The Safe Summer Campaign ensures every participant can find an activity that resonates with their passions and aspirations.
Some events the youth can expect are:
- July 27, Afternoon Aviators
- August 16, Kung Fu Panda 4 outdoor movie
- August 16, Teens on the Lawn
- August 17, Children’s Hour with Yoruba
- August 24, Afternoon Aviators
Other activities include teen and pre-teen nights on Fridays and Saturdays where community centers are open with later hours from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Teens and pre-teens can participate in a structured activity that is offered or simply hang out with their peers.
Teens and pre-teens can also participate in a Teen Vocal Showcase where the youth can show their talent through spoken word, dancing, and singing with a live band for local elected officials, according to Waldron.
“We are committed to providing safe and entertaining programs for our youth. We want to make sure that these programs promote personal growth,” Waldron said.
In addition to events and programs, the department also offers employment and volunteer opportunities for the youth.
Waldron describes this as a win-win for both the youth and the department. The youth’s curiosity is nurtured, promoting personal growth and they are then empowered to reach their full potential, while the department gains new staff and volunteers to help support these programs throughout the summer.
All events, programs, and activities for the Safe Summer Youth Campaign are free with a youth ID, which is also free.
A Youth ID can be obtained at any M-NCPPC community center in Prince George’s County with a parent or guardian (who is over the age of 18). One must bring proof of their age (ages 6-17) and proof of residence in Prince George’s County or Montgomery County.
New events and programs for the youth are constantly being added and can be found on the Prince George’s County Parks and Recreation website. A list of upcoming events can also be found on their website.
Contact our news desk at news@thebaynet.com
