Youth Services
Offering a variety of programs and activities designed to promote the development of young people.
Des Moines, IA: Citadel Corps Community Center Youth Services Information
How We Help Empower Youth
We serve hundreds of children every day, giving them the space and opportunity learn, connect, have fun, exercise and sustain good health. Our youth development programs include the following:
Music and Drama
Research indicates that music and arts education impacts language development, improves spatial-temporal skills and test scores, and can even increase the IQ scores of kids. Classes meet on Wednesdays at 6:45 p.m. and include guitar, timbrel, choir and drama.
Character Building
Our character-building programs meet Wednesdays at 5:45 p.m. after the youth devotions and dinner at 5 p.m. and offer the opportunity for kids to develop strong communication and leadership skills, grow their minds, and explore God's Word, all while having fun and connecting with their peers. Programs include:
- Moonbeams - children ages 3-6
- Sunbeams - girls in first through fifth grades
- Girl Guards - girls in sixth through 12th grades
- Rangers - boys in sixth through 12th grades
Summer Day and Overnight Camps
During the summer, kids ages 6-12 who are enrolled in our day camps enjoy crafts, music, library visits, field trips and swimming. An enhanced reading program also helps kids develop and maintain strong literacy skills.
The Western Plains Camp, located near South Sioux City, Nebraska, offers a number of overnight camp opportunities, including music and sports camps, for kids and teens in first through 12th grade.
Youth Devotions and Dinner
Young people are invited to enjoy dinner and a devotional each Wednesday at 5 p.m.
Corps Cadets
Pre-teen and teens are invited to participate in this training program and discipleship course Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. focusing on spiritual growth, leadership development, growing their knowledge of Salvation Army history and evangelism training.
Club 4 Twelve
All youth are invited to participate in this Bible study and social time Thursdays at 5 p.m.
Youth Development
Having positive role models in their lives and a safe place to connect with their peers can make a world of difference to children and teens.
Our music, drama, character building and youth ministry programs provide a safe, nurturing environment where both younger children and teenagers can benefit from encouraging role models, learn leadership skills, build character and enjoy socializing with others.
Help build a safe space for a kid to grow, learn, and build lifelong skills.
Donate today to provide essential youth services in your community, empowering the next generation and creating opportunities for education, mentorship, and personal growth to help them reach their full potential.
Other Services
