The Salvation Army, Summit County Area Services, has completely redesigned its summer enrichment program to appeal to today’s youth looking for a way to spend the summer having fun, learning life skills, making new friends and experiencing new adventures.
Billy Booth’s Arts & Science Factory (named after The Salvation Army founder William Booth) is accepting registrations. The day-long “day camp” format is perfect for working parents, opening at 7:30 a.m. through 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, beginning June 12 through Aug. 18.
Designed for students who have completed kindergarten through age 12, Billy Booth’s Arts & Science Factory provides STEM, music, arts and agriculture programming and USDA-approved breakfast, lunch and snack each day. Weekly field trips take students to Amazone, the zoo, historical societies and museums.
Located at the Army’s Maple Street location, Area Coordinator Major Kevin Jackson and Learning Zone Director Ashley Jones are collaborating with Baldwin Wallace University Conservatory of Music for music and literacy training, the All American Soap Box Derby for STEM programming, Rubber City Shakespeare Company and Martell School of Dance for theater (students will dance, act and play in Disney’s The Lion King Kids later in the term), and students will experience the benefits of healthy eating by growing their own green, leafy vegetables in the Army’s hydroponic and urban gardens.
The cost to attend is figured on a sliding scale, discounts are offered for multiple children in the family and Title XX is accepted. Download the Parent Handbook at www.salvationarmyakron.org/summer or call Ms. Ashley at (330) 434-7423 to reserve a place.
The Salvation Army has served the needs of Summit County for 132 years providing basic needs such as food, clothing, shelter and education by investing in the human spirit through counseling, learning programs, recovery/support programs, and spiritual support for those willing to accept it. With daily hot meals, a choice pantry, emergency shelter for families, hot showers, rent and utility assistance, accredited preschool, after-school and summer enrichment programs, with hope to instill tangible hope and break the cycle of intergenerational poverty. Offices are located at 190 S. Maple Street with Corps located in Akron and Barberton, at 560 Wooster Road West. For info, to volunteer or make a donation, call Marian Calvin, (330) 434-7110 or visit www.salvationarmyakron.org.