School is back in session, but that doesn’t mean the opportunities for fun and enrichment must end. Whether you are a parent looking for after-school programs for your child or a high school student searching for internships, we’ve got you covered!
Here, you’ll find locations, enrollment information, and important timelines. Please check this blog post regularly, as we routinely update residents on additional programs and activities. Enjoy!
Out-of-School Time Programming
Out-of-School Time (OST) is the time a child or youth spends in after-school or summer programming. In Philadelphia, OST programs are provided for young people in grades K through 12 at no or low cost to families.
Programs are available throughout the city with a variety of activities to choose from, including:
- Creative and Performing Arts
- Athletics and Health
- Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM)
The Office of Children and Families’ OST sites are opening between Tuesday, September 3, and Friday, September 13. Each program site handles enrollment separately.
Find a program that best suits your child by visiting the city’s OST Program Locator, then reach out directly to the agency listed for enrollment information.
Parks & Recreation After-School Programs
Philadelphia Parks & Recreation’s after-school programs allow youth to play, learn, and grow. Highlights include:
- Sports, Athletics, and Games
- Environmental Education and Outdoor Activities
- Arts
- Reading and STEM
- Culture and Community Awareness
- Health and Wellness
Programs are available to young people ages 6-12. Typical programs run weekdays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., but hours vary by site. Registered after-school programs will begin on or before Monday, September 9, 2024.
Intensive Prevention Services
This community-based prevention program is for young people at risk for involvement with the juvenile justice system. It provides meaningful programming through fun activities, experiences, and community engagement, promoting healthy behavior while addressing behaviors that brought them to the program.
For ages 10 – 19, at seven sites across the city. Enroll here.
Community Evening Resource Centers
This partnership with DHS, the Police Department and City Council offers safe spaces for youth ages 10-17 to engage in positive youth development. There are six locations throughout the city. Open daily from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Learn more about Community Evening Resource Centers.
Literacy Enrichment Afterschool Program (LEAP)
Afterschool Enrichment and Homework Help
LEAP introduces fun, hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) projects for youth in grades K-12 at Free Library locations during the school year at no cost to families! This program also offers in-person homework assistance or homework help online. No registration is required.
Leadership and Volunteer Opportunities for Teens
For teens looking to serve their community and gain a rewarding leadership experience, the Literacy Enrichment Afterschool Program also employs After-School Leaders and Teen Leadership Assistants to support youth learning at neighborhood libraries and provide opportunities for them to engage in professional and life-skills workshops.
Students in grades 7 through 12 (ages 14 and up) can also help in other ways at the Free Library. Visit the Library’s website to browse volunteer opportunities, fill out a volunteer application, and email it to volunteer@freelibrary.org.
COMING SOON: Career Connected Learning School Year Opportunities
Young people aged 12 to 24 can uncover their strengths and passions through paid, hands-on, work-based learning experiences, setting them up for future careers and economic success. Visit this blog post regularly for updates on upcoming opportunities for the school year. Programs are expected to start on October 14, 2024.
Girls Track/Boys Track
Girls T.R.A.C.K and Boys T.R.A.C.K are year-round, in-person programs for youth in grades 7-12. The program provides cultural and educational enrichment activities to help keep youth on the “TRACK” to success as they prepare for their future. It includes workshops on:
- Personal accountability
- Self-esteem
- Healthy relationships
- Career exploration
- Community service
- Financial literacy
- Conflict resolution
- Anger management
This program will meet weekly at 1515 Market Street (Temple University Center Campus—TUCC) from 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Youth ages 12-15 meet on Mondays, while those ages 16-18 meet on Wednesdays.
Contact ceu@phila.gov to enroll now!
Philadelphia Youth Leadership Council
This year-round leadership development program is for students in grades 7-12, focusing on:
- Leadership development
- Public speaking
- Networking
- Project management
The program meets on Thursdays after school from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at 1515 Market Street (Temple University Center Campus—TUCC).
To join, email ceu@phila.gov.
Teenshop
This prevention program empowers adolescent girls ages 13 to 18, helping them excel in school and realize their full potential. Participants will gain valuable skills and experiences through a dynamic mix of innovative workshops, enriching college tours, meaningful community service, and engaging cultural activities.
This program is held biweekly on Saturday mornings from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Drexel University’s Main Campus (3141 Chestnut Street).
Achieving Independence Center (AIC)
Transitioning to adulthood can be overwhelming, especially for youth in foster care. The AIC is a safe and communal space for teens and young adults, ages 14–23, who are in foster care or have a history of being in Philadelphia foster care.
Youth are matched with an AIC coach. They provide personalized help for youth, including:
- Employment/career planning
- Housing referrals
- Enroll in college/vocational school
- Complete high school/GED
- Improve computer literacy
- Achieve permanency
- Expand their personal development
OCF administers several City-supported programs, including Out-of-School Time, Career Connected Learning PHL, and PHLpreK. The office also oversees the Department of Human Services (DHS), Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, and the Free Library of Philadelphia.
Learn more about OCF’s mission and priorities.
