Youth Services
Kalamazoo, MI Corps Youth Services Information
Youth Programs
Our ministry is motivated by love of God. Our mission is to Embrace, Empower, and Equip the young people of Kalamazoo to succeed in relationships and life. We seek to do this by providing a safe environment for life-changing spiritual, educational, and wellness experiences in the Vine-Edison neighborhood.
How we help empower youth
Youth Night
KZOO Youth Night is a weekly program for children in grades K-12 to come together and learn by having fun! On Tuesday afternoons from 4:30 – 6:00 pm, students will spend time trying new activities such as woodworking, archery, cooking, sports, and photography. *Dinner is provided.
The Kickback: An After-school Program
This is a program designed by grown kids for not-so-grown kids! We provide a study hall for students to complete their daily schoolwork assignments or simply get ahead, then an open (indoor) gymnasium (with plenty of recreational materials available) once those obligations are completed. In addition, there are a multitude of optional activities planned in cooperation with Kzoo Youth Night! Held at the Kalamazoo Citadel Corps, it runs from 3-6 P.M. Monday through Thursday. The program is free to school-aged (kindergarten through high school senior) children, but registration and permission forms are required.
Volunteers are needed to offer guidance and supervision during these programs. Please click here to apply.
Summer Spark
Summer Spark is a free drop-in program for local children entering grades 1 -8. This program runs Monday through Friday from 9 am-1 pm throughout the summer. As a host site for Meet Up and Eat Up, a free breakfast and lunch are served daily for anyone 18 and younger. Each day, children can participate in fun games, crafts, and lessons.
Volunteers are needed to keep this program free and safe for the community. Click Here to apply!
Summer Camp
For over 100 years, thousands of children from low-income families have enjoyed the fresh air, exercise, and the chance to make new friendships during the annual summer camp program at Echo Grove. The camping experience is more than just a pleasant vacation. Children learn new skills and self-reliance; trained counselors who understand their emotional needs and problems help them to mature.
While at Echo Grove, campers participate in a wide range of activities, including swimming instruction, scouting, arts and crafts, music instruction, Christian education, and much more.
The Salvation Army Is Here to Help More Kids Learn More Things
After-school programs have been proven to foster social and academic development as programs provide safe and structured environments for kids during after-school hours, oftentimes filling the space between the end of the school day and when parents return from work.
We know that every parent wants the best for their child’s future. Sometimes, in a world filled with distractions and challenges, finding the right support system can make all the difference. From homework assistance and tutoring to encouraging higher grades and boosting motivation to team-building activities and cooperative learning experiences that help develop essential social skills, our programs are designed to empower kids to unlock their potential and thrive.
Stats
1,490,912
children attended youth programs at a Salvation Army last year
1 in 5
children are left alone to take care of themselves after the school day ends.
83,034
children and adults attended a Salvation Army camp last summer, where we served nearly 900,000 meals
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
