After-School Programs in Central Ohio: A Comprehensive Guide to Learning, Growing, and Developing

Are you looking for after-school programs in Central Ohio? You're in luck! There are a variety of programs available to help children and young adults learn, grow, and develop in a safe and positive environment. From academic programs to summer internships, there is something for everyone. The Columbus Recreation & Parks Capital Kids program offers academic programs and a safe place to learn and play after school and during the summer at a very low cost. The Ohio Avenue Youth Center provides a safe and positive environment in which young people are encouraged to think creatively, try new experiences, develop tools for self-expression, and contribute to their community through artistic or service projects.

In high-risk neighborhoods with few opportunities, these centers provide a safe and trusting environment in which positive relationships are built. The City of Columbus, United Way, ADAMH, the Franklin County Employment Department & of Family Services, the Ohio Department of Youth Services, and the Parker Lee Foundation provide funding for the Center's various programs, and all young people who come to the Ohio Avenue Youth Center are encouraged to participate in as many ongoing prevention, art, homework assistance, and recreational activities as they wish. After-School All-Stars Ohio offers comprehensive, free after-school programs that protect children and help them succeed in school and in life. A summer program for young women in middle and high school to experience mathematics through engaging activities in a non-traditional environment is also available. The YWCA Family Center provides emergency shelter and essential services such as family assistance, family advocacy, child care, employment, and a resource center to help families in Central Ohio find housing. The Center for Cultural Arts also offers a free six-week residential academic enrichment program for high school seniors who have a strong academic record and are interested in studying and exploring careers in science and engineering.

Artists participating in this program may be eligible to have their works exhibited in a future exhibition at the Center for Cultural Arts. The weekly school mentoring program brings together adolescent mentors from Upper Arlington, Marble Cliff and Grandview Heights with children enrolled in after-school programs in the Upper Arlington and Grandview Heights school districts. A free one-week summer residency program for racially and ethnically underrepresented high school students interested in exploring careers in accounting and business is also available. The thrift stores of Central Ohio offer several programs for individuals, youth, and families. Through this program, students of middle and high school age can participate in extracurricular and summer internships to gain skills in growing vegetables in sustainable aeroponic towers.

It helps immigrants and refugees from all countries to establish roots and achieve self-sufficiency in central Ohio. When you enroll your child in YWCA's Columbus Kids Place programs, you not only receive a high-quality after-school program but you also make a difference in the lives of homeless women and families in your community. They offer these care programs for youth, adults, and families at various locations in Central Ohio. A ten-week program for girls from third to eighth grade is also available where they develop an ongoing appreciation for health & fitness.