Summer camp program focuses on challenging youth

One of the country’s most recognized and long-running nonprofit organizations has built its legacy of service on working to improve the lives of everyone in the community. For 135 years, the United Way has been doing this by harnessing the caring power of communities to create opportunities that advance the common good.

Locally, the United Way of Mat-Su states on its website that its hope for the community “is nothing less than a sense of true belonging for all.” Through multiple programs designed to address the community’s most pressing challenges, the organization is focused on creating a stronger, healthier Mat-Su.

One of those programs, Youth 360, has been instrumental in expanding opportunities for local youth to build meaningful connections in safe and stimulating environments. Through its after-school clubs and summer programs, Youth 360 has been challenging kids to explore, learn, and grow.

That initiative was supported recently by a $17,500 grant from the Mat-Su Health Foundation for the program’s summer camps. Tyler Healy, who is the director of the Youth 360 program, said when teens find positive connections and activities, they are less likely to use drugs and alcohol, less likely to get in trouble, and more likely to experience positive mental health.

“Positive outcomes for teens provide benefits for the entire community,” Healy said. “Youth 360 could not provide these opportunities at no cost without the support of the Mat-Su Health Foundation and our other funders.”

The grant, which was awarded in March, will directly support summer program costs, including staffing, transportation, field trips, and youth activities.

“These types of activities help teens stay engaged with positive adults and peer groups during the summer, and reduce the amount of time they are spending online or in other non-supervised activities,” Healy said.

Since its inception in 2007, the nonprofit Mat-Su Health Foundation has been making this kind of investment in community health and wellness. As part owner of the Mat-Su Regional Medical Center, the Health Foundation has been able to return more than $138 million of its share of hospital profits to the community through scholarships, sponsorships, and grants to nonprofits groups across the Valley.

This is the seventh year for Youth 360’s summer program. The free summer day camp for middle and high school students runs Monday through Thursday, from June 2 through Aug. 7, and has locations in Houston and Wasilla.

Healy said the summer program is an extension of Youth 360’s daily after-school clubs. More than 150 youth are expected to participate in the summer program this year, which will include fitness, cooking, art, music, hiking, fishing, kayaking, and more.

“Overall, we seek to keep teens active and engaged during the summer months, while providing activities and opportunities that they may not otherwise experience,” he said. “After-school and summer learning programs like ours keep kids safe, provide an essential support for working families, and build critical skills for young people.”

Registration for this year’s summer program is free and still available. Transportation and food are provided.

FIND OUT MORE

https://youth-360.org