Mayor Bowser Highlights Free, Safe and Fun Summer Opportunities for DC Youth, Encourages Families to Stay Cool During Extreme Heat

Mayor Muriel Bowser announced free summer opportunities for District youth as thousands participate in summer camps and the Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program. Families can register for activities across all eight wards, including STEM camps, library events, and evening hangouts, despite the ongoing Extreme Heat Alert. Bowser stressed the significance of these programs for community engagement and youth development, stating, “We want every young person in DC to have a summer filled with opportunities to grow, connect and have fun. ” The District launched the Out of School Time DC portal to assist families in navigating available options.

Deputy Mayor for Education Paul Kihn emphasized the aim to make opportunities easy to access. Free programs include DCPS Middle School Summer Learning, offering engaging academic and non-academic programs, and the Junior Lifeguard Academy for teens. Additionally, the DC Public Library offers hundreds of events through August 31. Families can explore more activities through DPR's websites to ensure their children have a fulfilling summer.