Youth Development
Safe spaces, real skills, and a community that believes in every young person from after school to summer camp and beyond.
LEADERSHIP & LIFE SKILLS
LINKS Youth Ambassador Program
The LINKS Youth Ambassador Program empowers youth ages 12–19 to become confident leaders, responsible decision-makers, and positive voices in the community.
This free program operates year-round through a structured annual agenda, with each quarter focused on a different topic designed to build leadership skills, personal growth, community engagement, and future readiness.
1st & 3rd Fridays
Stipend + Meal Provided
- Mentorship and leadership development
- Financial literacy
- Mental health awareness
- Career exploration and readiness
Through interactive projects, discussions, and real-world exposure, youth gain practical life skills that prepare them for adulthood, higher education, and the workforce.
The program meets on the 1st and 3rd Fridays of each month, creating a consistent and supportive environment where young people can learn, grow, and build meaningful connections.
To encourage commitment and recognize their participation, youth receive a stipend and a meal for active involvement.
The LINKS Youth Ambassador Program is more than an activity - it is a leadership pipeline designed to equip the next generation with confidence and purpose.
- Mentorship and leadership development
- Financial literacy
- Mental health awareness
- Career exploration and readiness
Through interactive projects, discussions, and real-world exposure, youth gain practical life skills that prepare them for adulthood, higher education, and the workforce.
The program meets on the 1st and 3rd Fridays of each month, creating a consistent and supportive environment where young people can learn, grow, and build meaningful connections.
To encourage commitment and recognize their participation, youth receive a stipend and a meal for active involvement.
The LINKS Youth Ambassador Program is more than an activity - it is a leadership pipeline designed to equip the next generation with confidence and purpose.
K–6TH GRADE | AFTER SCHOOL
Fulton Street Youth Center After-School Program
The Fulton Street Youth Center After-School Program provides a free safe, structured, and welcoming environment for children in kindergarten through 6th grade to learn, play, and grow after school hours.
This program supports youth development by balancing academic enrichment, creativity, and positive mentorship. Students build confidence, strengthen social skills, and form meaningful connections within a caring community setting.
The program serves students from Akron Preparatory School, Middlebury Academy, and Mason CLC, with transportation provided from each school. Enrollment is limited to 25 students each year and requires an application. Open enrollment runs from May 1 through the first Monday in August.
Grades K–6
Mon–Thu 3:00–5:30 PM
Meal + Snack Bag Provided
- Homework help and educational enrichment
- Music and creative expression
- Arts and crafts
- Physical activity and exercise
- Character-building and mentorship
The program operates Monday through Thursday from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM. To support families and ensure students are ready to learn, participants receive:
- A healthy meal during the program
- A take-home snack bag
This program is designed to nurture the whole child - academically, socially, emotionally, and physically - while providing parents peace of mind knowing their children are in a safe and supportive space.
Grades K–6
Mon–Thu 3:00–5:30 PM
Meal + Snack Bag Provided
- Homework help and educational enrichment
- Music and creative expression
- Arts and crafts
- Physical activity and exercise
- Character-building and mentorship
The program operates Monday through Thursday from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM. To support families and ensure students are ready to learn, participants receive:
- A healthy meal during the program
- A take-home snack bag
This program is designed to nurture the whole child - academically, socially, emotionally, and physically - while providing parents peace of mind knowing their children are in a safe and supportive space.
SEASONAL | CAMPS & EVENTS
Community Youth Events & Camps
LINKS Community & Family Services provides engaging seasonal events and camps designed to help young people grow academically, socially, and personally. These experiences create safe spaces where youth can explore new interests, build friendships, and develop confidence while having fun.
Through a mix of education, recreation, and life-skill development, our youth opportunities spark curiosity, encourage creativity, and strengthen community connection.
Seasonal camps and events are available to current participants enrolled in LINKS programs and are offered as an incentive that recognizes academic improvement. Families interested in these opportunities are encouraged to enroll their students in LINKS programming to become eligible for future camp participation.
KEY YOUTH EXPERIENCES INCLUDE:
Overnight Summer Camp
This multi-day, three-day / three-night overnight camp gives youth a chance to unplug, connect, and grow in a supportive environment. Campers participate in:
- Team-building activities
- Leadership development
- Character-building sessions
- Outdoor recreation and group challenges
This experience helps youth build independence, develop social skills, and create lifelong memories.
Enhancement Camp
(Back-to-School Readiness Camp)
Our week-long academic enrichment camp strengthens reading and math skills so students return to school confident and prepared. The program includes:
- Hands-on learning activities
- Small-group instruction
- Educational games and challenges
The goal is to prevent learning loss and give students a strong academic start.
KEY YOUTH EXPERIENCES INCLUDE:
Overnight Summer Camp
This multi-day, three-day / three-night overnight camp gives youth a chance to unplug, connect, and grow in a supportive environment. Campers participate in:
- Team-building activities
- Leadership development
- Character-building sessions
- Outdoor recreation and group challenges
This experience helps youth build independence, develop social skills, and create lifelong memories.
Enhancement Camp
(Back-to-School Readiness Camp)
Our week-long academic enrichment camp strengthens reading and math skills so students return to school confident and prepared. The program includes:
- Hands-on learning activities
- Small-group instruction
- Educational games and challenges
The goal is to prevent learning loss and give students a strong academic start.
Together, LINKS youth events and camps provide positive, structured opportunities that nurture leadership, learning, and lasting growth.
Getting Connected is Simple
We believe access to great programs shouldn’t be complicated. Here’s how to get your child started.
Reach Out
Call us, email, or stop by 756 Upson Street, Akron.
Find the Right Fit
Our team walks you through available programs and matches your child with the right one.
Meet the Community
Your child meets program leaders, gets oriented, and starts feeling at home.
Watch Them Grow
Your child begins their journey, learning, connecting, and becoming.
Ready to take the first step?
LINKS Serves the Whole Family
Early Childhood & Family Support
Support for young children, parents, and caregivers from birth through early school years.
Senior
Connection
Engaging programs and support designed for our elder community members.
Community Empowerment
Neighborhood events, beautification, the community garden, and more.
Early Childhood & Family Support
Support for young children, parents, and caregivers from birth through early school years.
Senior Connection
Engaging programs and support designed for our elder community members.
Community Empowerment
Neighborhood events, beautification, the community garden, and more.