** All CAP4Kids material is for general information purposes. While we endorse careful review of the information on our site, we cannot recommend or endorse any particular organization. We are updating this list in real time, however availability may change quickly. Please contact agencies directly to verify details and access services. Information in each section is listed alphabetically. View our full resource directory for after-school and summer programs here. **
Central Community House – TRANSIT Arts
Offers free, weekly workshops for ages 11-21 to experience visual arts, dance, open mic, mentorship, and more. Visit the website for specific program offerings and to register.
1251 Bryden Road, Columbus, OH 43205
(380) 265-1775
transitarts.com/workshops
Columbus Recreation & Parks Afterschool Rec Club (Formerly Capital Kids)
Free after school program for K-8 students at Columbus Community Centers. Registration is still available for some locations. Visit the website for locations, contact information, and to register.
cap4kids.org/columbus/crp-afterschool-rec
FACCES
Offers a variety of programs for youth and adults including after-school cafe, Teen TALC, family gatherings, and more on the South Side of Columbus. Families must call or go online and register as a family to access programs. Visit the Bulletin Board for a full list of current offerings.
2515 Lockbourne Road, Columbus, OH 43207
(614) 319-6070
Bulletin Board: canva.com/design/DAGMY8TT25I/ZTzIlPG1mkJlVENPYa3Mog/view
Website: thefacces.org
Girls on the Run (GOTR)
A running club for girls Grades 3-5 at various school locations in Columbus. Program dates and times vary by site but runs from Monday, March 3 to Friday, May 16. Visit the Registration Link below to sign up. Fee assistance may be available, contact the organization for details.
(614) 681-4687
cap4kids.org/columbus/girls-on-the-run
Registration Link: pinwheel.us/register/index/SPRING2025GOTRCO?sid=d5042fad15584312aa3cb1c0f352f125
Let Me Run
A running club for boys Grades 3-8 at various school locations in Columbus. Program dates and times vary by site but runs from Monday, March 10 to Sunday, May 4. Visit the Registration Link below to sign up. Fee assistance may be available, contact the organization for details.
(614) 517-9591
cap4kids.org/columbus/let-me-run
Registration Link: pinwheel.us/register/index/Columbus-S25?sid=622e84fcf95d4a4288b7988857496485
Priscilla R. Tyson Cultural Arts Center
Offers 7-8 week class sessions for all ages in a variety of artistic mediums. The Spring class session runs March 4-April 27 and registration opens February 22. Class fee assistance is available, visit the website to apply.
139 West Main Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 645-7047
culturalartscenteronline.org/classes-workshops/art-classes
Think Make Live Youth – Guns Down
A weekly program for young people ages 13-24 to learn, talk, and have fun while accessing resources like job opportunities, conflict resolution, and more. Visit the website for full schedule and locations.
(614) 259-7226
Website: tmlyouth.org
Registration Form: docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdvoqV2U2uTSpJflnTZgPDdymyyZBQ5_BEDf7VJnKa5xJ2EGg/viewform
We Amplify Voices
WAV Club is a drop-in after school program and creative space for students grades 4-8 on Mondays-Fridays 2:30-5PM. They also offer weekly art workshops for all ages. Register on the website.
1327 Sullivant Avenue, Columbus, OH 43223
(614) 525-0369
weamplifyvoices.org/event-list
Africentric Personal Development Shop – APDS SMART 2.0 Summer Camp
A 9-week summer camp for ages 6-12 including arts, academics, character development, physical fitness, coping skills, and meals.
Cost: Contact the organization for details.
Program Dates: June – August, Monday-Friday 7:30AM-6PM
Registration: Opens in April, check the website.
(614) 253-4448
3500 Refugee Road, Columbus, OH 43232
apdsinc.org/services/apds-smart-2-0-summer-camp
Clintonville CRC – Kids Club
Afterschool and summer program for rising 1st-6th graders in the Clintonville and Beechwold area. Includes academic enrichment, outdoor activities, crafts, and snacks. Contact the organization for camp dates and registration.
Cost: Free for income-eligible families. Fees are based on household income on a sliding scale.
(614) 268-3539
clintonvillecrc.org/youth-services-kids-club-2
Columbus Recreation & Parks
Offers a variety of camps for ages 6-21, specific age ranges vary by camp. Camps include Outdoor Recreation, Therapeutic Recreation, Community Center-based camps, Sports, Arts, and more.
Cost: $100/week per child for Columbus Residents, $120/week per child for Non-residents. Income-based scholarships and financial aid are available, visit the website for required documents.
Program Dates: June 9 – August 1, Full Day Camps run 8AM-5PM with a meal, Half Day Camps run 8AM-12PM
Registration: Open now for Outdoor Recreation Camps, Registration Opens Tuesday, Feb. 25 for all other camps. Registration fills quickly, be sure to have an ActiveNet account ready.
(614) 645-7000
Camp Guide: issuu.com/columbusrecparks/docs/2025_summer_camp_guide
Website: columbusrecparks.com/community/summer-camps
Columbus Urban League – Young Engineer’s Society
Afterschool and summer STEAM program for ages 10-14 attending Mifflin Middle School and KIPP Middle School. Camp includes academic enrichment and a meal.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June – August, 9AM-3PM
Registration: Contact the organization.
3443 Agler Road, Suite 102, Columbus, OH 43219
(380) 239-1474
(614) 257-6300
cul.org/initiatives/fresh-afterschool
Community for New Direction
6-week summer day camp for ages 5-14 with educational, cultural, and recreational activities. Children receive two meals each day.
Cost: $50/child (for households with multiple children, pay for up to 3 children with additional children attending at no cost).
Program Dates: June 24 – August 2, Monday-Friday 8AM-3PM
Registration: Open now, contact the organization for details.
2096 West Mound Street, Columbus, OH 43223
1008 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus, OH 43205
(614) 272-1464
cndcolumbus.org/programs-services/youth-and-young-adult-programs
Delaware Area Career Center – Summer Camp
Offers 3-day summer camps for grades 7-9 to explore career options and participate in hands-on projects. Topics include automotives, robotics, culinary arts, game design, welding, and more. Students must live in the Big Walnut, Buckeye Valley, Delaware City, Olentangy, Worthington, or Westerville school districts.
Cost: $40/camper.
Program Dates: June 3-5, 9AM-2PM
Registration: Opens in March, register at the website.
4565 Columbus Pike, Delaware, OH 43015
(740) 201-3224
delawareareacc.org/page/summercamp
Directions for Youth and Families
Day camp for ages 8-14 at two locations. Activities include academic enrichment, physical recreation, life skills, coping skills, and more.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June – August
Registration: Open now, call the organization to register.
657 South Ohio Avenue, Columbus, OH 43205
3840 Kimberly Parkway, Columbus, OH 43232
(614) 258-8043
dfyf.org/ohio-avenue-youth-center
ETSS Tewahedo – Summer Youth Enrichment Program
Day camp for children grades 1-8 in refugee, immigrant, and low-income families. Activities include academic enrichment, cultural enrichment, physical activity, weekly field trips, and meals.
Cost: Free for eligible families.
Program Dates: June 16 – August 8
Registration: Open now, contact the organization.
(614) 252-5362
ethiotss.org/summer-youth-enrichment-summer-camp-program
Highland Youth Garden
Day camp for children ages 6-13 living in the Hilltop and Franklinton areas. Campers enjoy outdoor play, nature exploration, crafts, social-emotional skills, healthy snacks, and field trips. Details for 2025 camp will be released in March.
Cost: $25 per child with discounts for multiple children.
Program Dates: TBA
Registration: Contact the organization.
85 South Highland Avenue, Columbus, OH 43223
(614) 653-8263
highlandyouthgarden.org/summer-camp
King Arts Complex – Youth Arts Education
8-week day program for ages 5-13 to experience STEAM, dance, visual arts, African American history and culture, and more.
Cost: $125/week per student, $25 Registration Fee. Scholarships are available.
Program Dates: June 9 – August 1, Monday-Friday, 9AM-4PM
Registration: Opens in March, can be completed in-person at the King Arts Complex.
853 Mount Vernon Avenue, Columbus, OH 43203
(614) 645-0627
kingartscomplex.com/programs/youth-arts-education
Kingdom Image Arts – Kingdom Kidz
They offer opportunities year-round for kids to receive mentorship and explore the arts. Summer day camp for youth ages 6-18 includes arts, life skills, and healthy meals.
Cost: Free for TANF-eligible families.
Program Dates: TBA, Monday-Friday, 8AM-5PM
Registration: Contact the organization.
2501 Mock Road, Columbus, OH 43219
(614) 835-7743
kiarts.live/copy-of-kingdom-kidz
Mezzacello Urban Farm
Offers week-long, half-day and full-day camps for ages 9-15. Topics include ecology, farming, vet tech, and bioengineering.
Cost: Fees vary by camp and start at $150/week per child.
Program Dates: Specific dates vary by camp, starting April 21- August 15.
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register.
33 North 20th Street, Columbus, OH 43203
mezzacello.org/2025-summer-camps
Ohio State University – LifeSports Summer Camp
A 4-week camp teaching healthy lifestyle behaviors, sports skills, and social skills for ages 9-14. The camp takes place at The Ohio State University, elementary schools, and Community Centers in Columbus.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: Dates vary by location from June 2-27. Visit the website to find a location near you.
Registration: Online application opens March 3rd. Participants must complete the online application and a caregiver must in-person attend registration.
Bricker Hall: 190 North Oval Mall, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 514-5942
lifesports.osu.edu
Ohio State University – Global Citizen Summer Camp
A week-long day camp for middle school students to explore diverse communities, intercultural competence, and global citizenship.
Cost: $200/camper. Need-based scholarships are available, contact the program for details.
Program Dates: June 9-June 13
Registration: Contact the organization.
100 Hagerty Hall, 1775 College Road, Columbus, OH 43210
(614) 292-4361
cllc.osu.edu/outreach/summercamp
Salvation Army – Summer Day Camp
Includes academic enrichment, social development, physical wellness, service learning, field trips, and meals.
Cost: Contact the organization.
Program Dates: Begins June 3.
Registration: Call your local Salvation Army Worship & Community Center.
Hilltop: 2300 West Mound Street, Columbus, OH 43204
Linden: 3662 Karl Road, Columbus, OH 43224
Southeast: 966 East Main Street, Columbus, OH 43205
(614) 369-2865, (614) 506-0273, or (614) 437-2159
easternusa.salvationarmy.org/southwest-ohio/central-ohio/youth-programs
St. Stephen’s Community House – STEAM Camp
8-week day camp for students entering grades 1-8 to experience academic enrichment and fun.
Cost: Free for income-eligible families in Franklin County.
Program Dates: TBA
Registration: Contact the organization.
1500 East 17th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43219
(614) 294-6347
saintstephensch.org/youth-services
YMCA
Offers summer day camps for grades 1-6 and summer enrichment camps for grades K-6 at multiple YMCA locations across Central Ohio. Campers spend time outdoors, learn social skills, and enjoy field trips. Contact your local YMCA
Cost: Fees start at $230/week per child for YMCA members, $260/child per week for Non-members. Limited scholarships are available, apply by April 15.
limited scholarships, apply by April 15
Registration: Register online. Contact your local YMCA with questions. Register here: ymcacolumbus.org/school-age/summer-camp/day-camp-enrichment-camp/registration-guide
Summer Camp Locations & Information: ymcacolumbus.org/school-age/summer-camp/day-camp-enrichment-camp/locations
254 Center – Gahanna Teen Center
Students grades 3-12 in Gahanna and surrounding communities can enjoy activities during scheduled open hours. Visit the website to view hours and register.
Cost: Free
254 Agler Road, Gahanna, OH 43230
(614) 414-2326
cap4kids.org/columbus/two-fifty-four-youth-center
Central Ohio Leadership Academy (COLA)
6-day program for rising high school juniors and seniors in Central Ohio to build leadership skills.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: July 21 – July 26, 8AM-4PM
Application: Due along with a letter of recommendation May 30. Apply here.
Kipp Columbus: 2900 Inspire Drive, Columbus, OH 43224
leadershipcolumbus.org/cola
Girls Who Code – Summer Immersion and Pathways
Offers virtual opportunities for girls and non-binary students in grades 9-11 to learn computer science skills. The Summer Immersion Program offers 2 weeks of live, virtual programming. Pathways is a 6-week self-paced experience. Participants who complete a program receive access to alumni benefits like career support, leadership programs, and more.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: Dates vary for specific programs from June 30 – July 28.
Registration: Open now, complete the online application here: girlswhocodesm.smapply.io
girlswhocode.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/115015932847-What-are-Girls-Who-Code-Summer-Programs
Law & Leadership Institute – Summer Institute
College-prep program for current 8th grade students interested in exploring careers in law. Programs are offered in Columbus, Akron, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dayton, and Toledo. Interested students must complete the application along with a letter of recommendation.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 16-July 19
Application: Due March 25. Apply here.
303 East Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 485-3503
– Apps open now
cap4kids.org/columbus/law-leadership-institute-lli
Ohio State University – Data Science Camp
Introduces young women entering grades 7-9 to the field of data science and analytics. Interested students must complete the online application.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: July 7-11
Application: Due March 30. Apply here.
Pomerene Hall, 1760 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210
tdai.osu.edu/education/data-science-summer-camp
Ohio State University – HRS Camp
3-day long day camp for high school students interested in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, such as Athletic Training, Dietetics and Nutrition, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Physical Therpay, and more.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 2-4, 8AM-5PM
Application: Due April 25. Apply here.
Ohio State University – Philosophy and Critical Thinking (PACT) Camp
2-week long day camp for students grades 9-12 to explore philosophy topics through discussions, debates, media, games, and lectures.
Cost: Tuition is $500. Need-based scholarships are available, email the program for assistance.
Program Dates: June 23-July 18
Application: Open now, applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Apply here.
Department of Philosophy, 350 University Hall, 230 North Oval Mall, Columbus, OH 43210
(614) 292-7914
philosophy.osu.edu/pact
Ohio State University – Pills, Potions & Poisons
Week-long day camp for high school students who have completed high-school level Biology or Chemistry, and are interested in pharmacy. Interested students must complete the application with a teacher recommendation. Students learn through experiments, field trips, projects, and explore careers in pharmaceuticals.
Cost: $250 per student. Financial assistance is available, contact the program for details.
Program Dates: July 7-11, 9AM-4PM
Application: Due Friday, April 11.
Ohio State University College of Pharmacy: 500 West Twelfth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 292-2266
pharmacy.osu.edu/practice-teaching-engagement/public-professional-education/pills-potions-and-poisons
Ohio State University – Summer Institute for Future Nurses
A three-day program for high school students to explore nursing careers through hands-on activities, tours, and engagement with faculty, staff and students. High school students grades 9-12 who meet GPA requirements are eligible to apply.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 10-12, 8AM-5PM
Application: Apply online by Friday, April 11th. Application required a transcript, recommendation letter, or report card. Visit the website for eligibility details and to apply.
nursing.osu.edu/offices-and-initiatives/office-diversity-equity-and-inclusion/summer-institute-future-nurses
Upward Bound – Summer Program
A 6-week experience offering college prep, internship opportunities, and more at three locations in Columbus. Students may receive money for full participation, and opportunities for free college credit at Columbus State Community College or Ohio State University. Visit the link below for Upward Bound options in Central Ohio.
Cost: Free for income-eligible students
cap4kids.org/columbus/upward-bound-central-ohio
Franklin Park Conservatory – Teen Corps
An 8-week summer work experience for 15-18 year-olds to gain hands-on experience in urban farming, cooking, and more. Participants must have a Columbus address or attend at Columbus City School to qualify, and complete an application and interview process.
Cost: Free. Participants receive a stipend for working in the Community Garden.
Program Dates: TBA
Application: TBA, Interviews will take place in May.
1777 East Broad Street Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 715-8000
cap4kids.org/columbus/teen-corps
Lead the Way
A 6-week program for young adults in Franklin County ages 16-21 to receive training in pre-apprenticeship or work readiness programs. Career pathways for the summer program include construction, medical, logistics, IT, social media, and more; and culminates with job placement.
Cost: Free, participants earn $15/hour
Program Dates: TBA
Registration: TBA
215 North Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
General Inquiries: (614) 915-0434
Enrollment: (614) 965-8392
leadthewaylearningacademy.org/summer-programs
Ohio University – Medical Academy
A 4-day summer camp for high school juniors and seniors in Central Ohio to explore careers in healthcare at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine in Dublin, Ohio.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 10-13, 8:30AM-4PM
Application: Opens March 1.
6775 Bobcat Way, Dublin, Ohio 43016
(614) 793-5556
ohio.edu/medicine/about/campuses/dublin/reach
Public Safety Corps
Worksite-based program for ages 14-20 who have completed 8th grade. Provides practical experience and training for young adults interested in a career as a law enforcement officer.
Cost: Free
Registration: Contact the organization.
1000 North Hague Avenue, Columbus, OH 43204
(614) 645-4605
columbus.gov/Services/Public-Safety/Police/About-the-Columbus-Division-of-Police/Public-Safety-Corps-Program
Trades of Faith – Project GENESIS
A paid summer employment program for youth ages 14-18. Youth are matched with a worksite based on their area of interest and location, and gain hands-on experience working alongside industry professionals.
Cost: Free, participants earn $15/hour
Program Dates: TBA
Registration: Opens April 1.
(614) 623-0561
tradesoffaith.org/projectgenesis
Camp Corral
A free, week-long summer camp for military children ages 8-15. Priority enrollment is given to children of wounded, injured, ill and/or fallen military members. The camp is held at various locations across the US. Visit the website for details and to apply.
cap4kids.org/columbus/camp-corral-for-military-kids
Camp Hamwi
An outdoor summer camp experience for youth ages 7-17 with diabetes.
Cost: $200 per camper. Day camps are available for ages 3-12 for $100/camper. Scholarships are available for families based on income.
Program Dates: Varies by age group, from July 13 – August 2
Registration: Open Now, visit the website to register.
(614) 437-2914
lifecarealliance.org/programs/coda/camp-hamwi/about/#camp-programs
Camp Kesem
A free, overnight summer camp experience for children ages 6-18 who have a parent with a cancer diagnosis. They offer camps across the United States, with several chapters in Ohio. Camp dates vary by chapter, visit the website below for details and to register a child now.
cap4kids.org/columbus/camp-kesem
Flying Horse Farms
A medical specialty camp providing transformative experiences for children with serious illnesses and their families. Campers range from 7-21 years old and have diagnoses including cancer, heart conditions, rheumatologic diagnoses, blood disorders, lung conditions, gastrointestinal disorders, craniofacial diagnoses, spinal cord diagnoses, and mental health conditions.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: Multiple Camps from April 11 – November 16. View Schedule Here.
Registration: Registration for Spring Camps is Due March 3. Registration for Summer Camps is Due June 30. Visit the website for details.
5260 State Route 95, Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338
(419) 751-7077
flyinghorsefarms.org
Ohio Military Kids
Offers summer day camps and weekend getaways for youth ages 9-17 in a military family.
Cost: Varies by camp, $60-250 per camper. View 2024 Cost FAQ Here.
Program Dates: View Schedule Here.
Registration: Opens in April.
2201 Fred Taylor Drive, Columbus, OH 43210
(614) 257-8876
ohio4h.org/statewide-programs/operation-military-kids/upcoming-events
Festa
Multiple opportunities for teenagers, adults, and families to volunteer for their youth summer lunch program or adult programs.
Upper Arlington Lutheran Church (UALC) at Mill Run
3500 Mill Run Drive, Hilliard, Ohio 43026
(614) 586-7939
wearefesta.org/volunteer