Programs Register Events Parent Info Volunteer
🌱 Serving Springfield Since 2003

Building
Tomorrow's Leaders.

Programs that challenge, inspire, and support young people — in the classroom, outdoors, and in the community. For ages 6 through 18.

Ages: 6–9 yrs 10–13 yrs 14–18 yrs
This Season
480
Youth Enrolled
12
Active Programs
95
Volunteers
22
Yrs Serving
🏕️
Summer Adventure Camp
Ages 7–14 · Spots available
🎤
Teen Leadership Academy
Ages 14–18 · 3 spots left
🤝
After-School Mentoring
Ages 10–16 · Open enrollment
🔒Background-checked staff
🛡️Fully insured programs
📋State-licensed facility
🏆Accredited organization
💚22 years serving Springfield
Find the Right Fit

Our Programs

Every program is led by trained staff and designed to grow confidence, skills, and community.

🏕️
Ages 7–14
Summer Adventure Camp

A week-long outdoor experience combining hiking, team challenges, nature education, and campfire nights. Kids come back different — in the best way.

Mon–Fri, 8 AM – 5 PM
Sessions: July 7 & July 28
$320 / session · Scholarships available
9 spots open
🎤
Ages 14–18
Teen Leadership Academy

A semester-long program developing communication, problem-solving, civic engagement, and real-world leadership. Our graduates go on to do remarkable things.

Saturdays, 9 AM – 1 PM
September 13 – December 6
$180 / semester · Application required
3 spots left
🤝
Ages 10–16
After-School Mentoring

Weekly one-on-one or small group sessions pairing young people with trained adult mentors. Academic support, goal-setting, and someone in their corner every week.

Mon / Wed / Thu, 3–5:30 PM
Year-round enrollment
Free · Funded by community donors
Always open
🌿
Ages 6–12
Junior Explorers Club

Science, nature, and hands-on exploration for younger kids. Monthly Saturday meetups with projects ranging from backyard ecology to simple robotics.

2nd Saturday of each month, 10 AM–12 PM
September through June
$75 / year · All materials included
13 spots open
💻
Ages 12–17
Code & Create Tech Lab

Web development, app design, game building, and creative technology. Industry mentors, real projects, and a portfolio teens can actually be proud of.

Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4–6 PM
Rolling 8-week sessions
$120 / session · Devices provided
4 spots left
🎭
Ages 8–16
Youth Arts & Drama

Theater, improv, and creative expression. Open to every confidence level. Culminates in two live performances each year — one for families, one for the community.

Mondays, 4–6 PM
September – December
$95 / semester
2 spots left
Making a Difference

Our Impact This Year

👦
480+
Youth Enrolled
🏆
94%
Parent Satisfaction
🎓
210
Scholarships Given
🌱
22yrs
Serving Springfield
How to Join

Register Your Child

Getting started is simple. Most registrations are confirmed within one business day and include a welcome packet with everything you need for the first session.

1
Choose a Program
Browse the programs above and find the best fit for your child's age, interests, and schedule.
2
Submit This Form
Fill out the registration form. We'll confirm availability and follow up within 24 hours.
3
Welcome Packet
You'll receive a welcome packet with schedule, what to bring, drop-off/pick-up info, and staff contacts.
4
First Day
Show up, drop off, and watch your kid have a great time. We'll handle the rest.

Registration Form

Takes about 2 minutes. We'll follow up within one business day.

Mark Your Calendar

Upcoming Events

Full Calendar
Jun
21
Family Event
End-of-Year Celebration & Showcase
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Springfield Youth Center

Performances, project displays, and awards for all enrolled youth. Families welcome — food and activities included.

Jul
7
Camp Session 1
Summer Adventure Camp — Session 1 Starts
Drop-off 7:45 AM · Pickup 5:15 PM
Camp Ridgeview, North Springfield

Registration still open — 9 spots available for ages 7–14.

Aug
2
Info Session
Fall Programs Parent Info Night
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Springfield Youth Center + Zoom

Meet program staff, ask questions, and learn about fall enrollment for all programs. Free to attend.

Common Questions

What if my child has never done something like this before?
That's exactly who our programs are designed for. All of our staff are trained to welcome first-timers, and we intentionally build in time for kids to get comfortable before jumping into activities. Most kids who are nervous on day one are begging to come back by day three.
What are your staff-to-youth ratios?
We maintain a 1:6 ratio for youth ages 6–9, 1:8 for ages 10–13, and 1:10 for teens. All lead staff are CPR and first aid certified, and every staff member has completed a full background check before their first day.
Are financial assistance options available?
Yes. We believe cost should never be a barrier. Our scholarship fund provides partial or full fee waivers on a needs basis. The After-School Mentoring program is completely free year-round. Contact us directly to discuss options — the process is private and straightforward.
Can I volunteer or get involved as a parent?
Absolutely — parent volunteers are one of our biggest assets. You can help as a program assistant, event volunteer, board member, or skills-based contributor (accounting, design, legal, etc.). See the Volunteer section below or contact us to learn more.
How do I stay informed about my child's program?
Every program has a designated staff contact reachable by phone and email. We send weekly program summaries to parents by email, and you'll receive same-day notification for anything urgent. Our staff are also present at every drop-off and pickup to answer questions in person.
Get Involved

Volunteer Opportunities

Parents and community members make our programs possible. Whether you have a free Saturday morning or a professional skill to share, there's a place for you here.

🏕️
Program Assistant
Help lead activities, supervise groups, and support staff during program sessions.
4 hrs/wk
🚗
Transportation Volunteer
Drive youth to off-site events and field trips. Must pass background and driving checks.
As needed
🎤
Guest Mentor / Speaker
Share your career, skills, or story with our Teen Leadership Academy participants.
1–2 sessions
💻
Skills-Based Volunteer
Accounting, legal, marketing, IT, grant writing — use your expertise to help us grow.
Flexible

Sign Up to Volunteer

Tell us a bit about yourself and we'll match you with the right opportunity.

Get Started Today

Give Your Child a
Great Summer.

Programs are filling up. Register now and secure your child's spot in the program that's right for them.