When the final bell of the school year rings, children run home, eagerly anticipating the freedom of summer. A week (sometimes even days) later, parents hear the dreaded two-word phrase: “I’m bored.”

Parents need not fear as the Family YMCA of Greater Augusta is making sure that children have their best summer ever thanks to a variety of programs and activities that stimulate both mind and body. “It’s important for children to have an outlet to play and learn throughout the summer,” says Danny McConnell, President/CEO of the Family YMCA of Greater Augusta. “From summer camp to swim lessons to our summer food program, the Y supports all children in the community and helps them discover their potential.”

Day camp at the Y provides kids with adventure, healthy fun, personal growth and friendships that can take a so-so summer and turn it into a memory that lasts a lifetime. The Family YMCA of Greater Augusta’s camps provide a welcoming environment for kids where they can belong, build relationships, develop character and discover their potential. With 12 camp locations this summer throughout the CSRA, including the YMCA’s Camp Lakeside in Lincoln County, the opportunities are endless for the best summer ever for kids in the CSRA.

Since summer is synonymous with swim season, the Y encourages families to explore the benefits of swimming while also keeping safety top of mind. The Family YMCA of Greater Augusta offers swim lessons year-round at three YMCA branches in the CSRA: Aiken County Family YMCA, Downtown Augusta Family YMCA and the Wilson Family YMCA. Swim lessons are available for all ages, and we encourage families to ensure their kids have a safe and fun summer in the water.  

And while these programs keep local children busy and engaged throughout the summer, kids can’t focus when they’re hungry. Children who rely on low-cost lunch plans during the school year are at risk of going hungry when school’s not in session. The Y’s Summer Food Program helps fill that gap to make sure kids can enjoy healthy meals and snacks throughout the summer. With generous support from the Walmart Foundation, the Family Y of Greater Augusta will be able to feed children throughout the year in our summer camp and after-school programs through the YMCA of the USA’s Summer Food Program grant. In an effort to serve even more children in our community, four mobile food buses will be in operation this summer at the following apartment complexes:

-      Salem Arms Apartments: 2243 Rosier Road, Augusta

-      Providence Place Apartments: 2205 Southgate Drive, Augusta

-      Regency Village Apartments: 2810 Thomas Lane, Augusta

-      Forest Brook Apartments: 3122 Damascus Road, Augusta

This free program is open to anyone ages 18 and younger.

Whether it’s keeping little ones full, helping children read, keeping kids safe around water, or keeping them active and engaged throughout the summer, the Y has a program to benefit all youth in the community.