While the city struggles to find recreational activities for youth, many adults are also searching for something wholesome to do with their free time.
Go back to your roots and rediscover iconic organizations that once provided you with hours of fun and, for some, kept you out of trouble. Join or give your time to kids that look to these institutions for good clean fun. You can also expose your children to these places that offer lots of programming.
YMCA
Affectionately known as the Y, the YMCA is a leading nonprofit organization for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. It is a powerful association of men, women, and children committed to bringing about lasting personal and social change.
With a focus on nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving the nation’s health and well-being and providing opportunities to give back and support neighbors, the Y enables youth, adults, families and communities to be healthy, confident, connected and secure. The Y offers programs, services and initiatives focused on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, according to the unique needs of the communities it engages.
The Y is accessible to all people. Financial assistance is offered to individuals and families who cannot afford membership.
To find your nearest Y, call 1-800-872-9622 or visit YMCA.net.
Boys and Girls Club
The Boys and Girls Club’s mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need the club most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. It provides a safe place to learn and grow; ongoing relationships with caring, adult professionals; life-enhancing programs and character development experiences; hope and opportunity.
The club offers educational and career programs; character and leadership programs; health and life skills, arts programs, sports fitness and recreation; and specialized programs. They provide all of this in order to address social issues like the high school dropout rate, and lack of resources for parents.
There are over 10 Boys and Girls Clubs in Indianapolis.
To join, visit bgca.org.
IndyParks
Indy Parks and Recreation offers opportunities for fun, fitness and family togetherness, through cultural, environmental and athletic programs and services.
It offers year-round programs and events in the following areas: adult sports, arts, health and fitness, environmental education, land stewardship, programs for senior citizens, summer day camps, therapeutic/adaptive recreation, school outreach, summer food and supervised play sites and youth sports.
Indy Parks is confident you’ll find something that fits your recreational needs and interests.
For more information or to request a Fun Guide, call (317) 327-PARK or visit Indy.gov.
