The Kinship Youth Program’s Summer Program
KYP’s Summer Program is a six week experience for youth in Kinship Families. We focus on academic and leadership development through daily educational and recreational activities. This fabulous Summer Program uses evidence and practice based Positive Youth Development and Trauma Informed Care strategies to support the youth we work with.
Each summer, the youth in the program are organized into three “crews.” Youth 8th grade and younger join one of two crews based on interest areas. This year, we have a Geography Crew and a Film Analysis Crew. Our last group is made up of our high school youth, called the High School Leadership Crew. Along with all of the other fun projects of the Summer Program, the Leadership Crew stays at the program for one extra week. Throughout the summer, this crew get to practice their leadership skills, and earn additional responsibilities within the program.
We ensure a ratio of one adult to every six children every day of the Summer Program. This effective structure allows staff and volunteers to develop strong relationships with children and caregivers, and supports the maintenance of stable program environment that encourages positive peer friendship and life skill development for our youth.
KYP’s Summer Program has been located at Taylor Memorial United Methodist Church in West Oakland for the last 12 years! Taylor Memorial’s location gives the Summer Program access to two local parks, a public pool, and a local library. It is also easily accessible by public transportation.
