Philly kids and teens are in for a treat as the city rolls out a packed summer program schedule under the banner of It's A Summer Thing, offering everything from free swimming lessons to career development opportunities. The initiative, poised to keep youngsters busy and out of trouble, is kicking off with an assortment of activities aimed at fostering growth, learning, and a heap of fun while schools are out.
The City of Brotherly Love has taken a comprehensive approach, making sure there's something for everyone by providing career-connected learning for youths aged 12 to 24, not only does this initiative offer youngsters the chance to unearth their passions, but it also sets them up with paid work-based experiences which could be the stepping stones to career triumph, programs are available including the new Summer Achievers joint push with the School District and Office of Children and Families meant to boost literacy and numeracy skills among 1st through 8th graders, these programs offer enrichment, meals, and camp-like activities at zero cost. Enthusiastic families can throw their names in the ring for these opportunities online, according to the City of Philadelphia.
Amidst the stifling summer heat, the city is serving up cool relief with more than 60 pools and over 100 playgrounds opening their gates daily. Parents can take a breather knowing that their little ones can make a splash safely with free swim lessons on offer.
In terms of employment opportunities, the city's Department of Parks and Recreation is hunting for 400 lifeguards to stand watch over its various aquatic oases, with potential lifeguards enticed by a $1,000 end-of-summer hiring bonus if they dive in with applications by April 15 – or $500 by May 15 – and for the brainy bunch, the Summer of Wonder and Science at libraries city-wide promises to bolster knowledge with a science-focused twist for second to sixth graders, as reported by the City of Philadelphia. Additionally, the Community Evening Resource Centers offer a haven for 10 to 17-year-olds, providing safe spaces for positive engagement during the evening hours.
With a spotlight on prevention, the Intensive Prevention Services and specialized Out-of-School-Time Programming cater to at-risk youth and students looking to excel in arts, STEM, or athletics, free of charge – a lifesaver for families looking to keep their kids not only entertained but also enriched during the summer hiatus
