The City of Concord’s Recreation Services Department has launched a youth scholarship program to provide recreation opportunities for young residents.
Through the new program, underserved Concord youth can experience traditional summer recreation activities, including the popular group swim lessons at Concord Community Pool, Backyard Explorers day camp for elementary students, East Bay Explorers day camp for middle school students, and the Counselor in Training (CIT) program for teens ages 12-15.
The Youth Scholarship Program is open to all Concord residents under the age of 18 who meet financial qualifications and submit a completed application. Awardees will pay a nominal enrollment fee of $10-$75, depending on the program selected. Participation is limited and based on funding availability.
“We are proud to create more opportunities for Concord youth to enjoy our summer programs,” Recreation Services Director Steve Voorhies said. “Getting outdoors, playing and learning new skills is what being a kid is all about. Our goal with this program is to reduce barriers to recreation.”
Applications will be available beginning Monday, May 1 and accepted until spaces or funding are exhausted. To learn more about the program and to apply, please visit www.cityofconcord.org/youthscholarship. General information about all of the programs offered through Recreation Services is as also available on the City's Recreation web page.
Funding for this financial assistance program was made possible by the one-time allocation of federal funds through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Concord received $27 million, and the Concord City Council directed $7 million into various City projects and initiatives, including this scholarship program, which received $100,000 intended to support participation in recreation activities for the next two summers.