What are the best summer camp options in Auburn, Alabama. How can families register for Parks and Recreation programs. Which special events and holiday happenings are offered throughout the year. Where can residents find information about fitness classes, aquatics programs, and therapeutic activities.
Exploring Auburn’s Summer Camp Offerings
Auburn, Alabama boasts a diverse array of summer camp options for children and young adults of all ages and abilities. The city’s Parks and Recreation department organizes numerous programs designed to engage, educate, and entertain participants throughout the summer months.
Popular Summer Camp Programs
- Camp Kaleidoscope
- Gross Out Camp
- Junior Camp Counselor Program
- Athletic Camps
- Cultural Arts Summer Camps
- Special Interest Camps
- Summer Therapeutic Camp
Each of these programs offers unique experiences tailored to different interests and age groups. For instance, the Gross Out Camp provides hands-on science activities, while Cultural Arts Summer Camps focus on various artistic disciplines.
Therapeutic Summer Day Camp
The Therapeutic Summer Day Camp is a standout program designed for young adults with various disabilities. Running for seven weeks, this camp is a joint project between Auburn Parks and Recreation and the Exceptional Outreach Organization.
Key details for the 2023 Therapeutic Summer Day Camp include:
- Ages: 15+
- Dates: Applications available from February 14th, 2023
- Hours: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday
- Location: Drake Middle School
- Fees: $125.00 for the first child, $75.00 for each additional sibling
For younger participants aged 8-14, the TR Mini Camp offers a similar experience with a modified schedule from June 12 to July 26, 2023, running Monday-Wednesday each week from 8:30 am to 12 pm.
Aquatics Programs and Facilities
Auburn’s Parks and Recreation department maintains robust aquatics programs, ensuring residents have access to safe and enjoyable water activities throughout the summer.
Swimming Lessons and Pool Facilities
The city offers comprehensive swimming lessons during the summer months, catering to various skill levels and age groups. Residents can find information about pool hours, rules, and policies on the official Parks and Recreation website.
How can families enroll their children in swimming lessons? To register for summer swim lessons, visit the Auburn Parks and Recreation website or contact the aquatics department directly. Classes typically fill up quickly, so early registration is recommended.
Cultural Arts and Creative Programs
Auburn’s commitment to fostering creativity and artistic expression is evident in its diverse range of cultural arts programs and facilities.
Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center (JDCAC)
The JDCAC serves as a hub for various artistic disciplines, including:
- Visual Arts
- Dance
- Music
- Theatre
The center hosts classes, workshops, and exhibitions throughout the year, providing opportunities for residents of all ages to explore their creative interests.
Dean Road Ceramics Studio
This specialized facility offers ceramics classes for both children and adults. Notable programs include:
- Empty Bowls charity event
- Day in Clay workshops
Are there opportunities for beginners to try ceramics? Yes, the Dean Road Ceramics Studio offers introductory classes for both children and adults, providing a supportive environment for those new to the art form.
Fitness and Wellness Initiatives
Auburn Parks and Recreation promotes active lifestyles through various fitness programs and initiatives.
Fitness Classes and Walking Programs
Residents can participate in a variety of fitness classes suitable for different ages and fitness levels. Popular programs include:
- Auburn Stride Walkers
- Active Auburn initiative
These programs encourage community members to stay active and engaged in their physical well-being.
Special Events and Holiday Happenings
Throughout the year, Auburn hosts numerous special events and holiday celebrations that bring the community together.
Annual Events Calendar
Some of the most anticipated events include:
- Auburn CityFest
- Independence Day Celebration
- Sundown Concert Series (Fall and Spring)
- Downtown Trick or Treat
- Daddy Daughter Date Night
- Bark in the Park
- SummerNight Downtown Art Walk
These events offer opportunities for families and individuals to engage with their community and enjoy seasonal festivities.
Unique Community Initiatives
Auburn also organizes creative events that encourage exploration and community involvement:
- Ride and Seek scavenger hunt
- Fishing Rodeo
- Itty Bitty Auburn Scavenger Hunt
- RC Car Skate Park Takeover
How can residents stay informed about upcoming events? The best way to keep track of Auburn’s special events is to follow the Parks and Recreation department’s social media accounts, sign up for their newsletter, or regularly check their official website for updates.
Educational and Environmental Programs
Auburn Parks and Recreation offers various educational programs that cater to different interests and age groups.
Nature and Environmental Education
Programs focused on environmental awareness and nature appreciation include:
- Earth Day Plant Identification Walk
- The Louise Kreher Preserve & Nature Center activities
- Citizens’ Climate Education workshops
These initiatives aim to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local environment among residents.
Specialized Learning Programs
Auburn also offers unique educational opportunities such as:
- Homeschool programs
- Learning to Read classes
- Parenting an ADHD Child workshops
These programs provide targeted support and resources for specific educational needs within the community.
Volunteer and Community Engagement Opportunities
Auburn Parks and Recreation encourages community involvement through various volunteer programs and initiatives.
Rec. VIP Volunteer Program
This program allows residents to contribute their time and skills to support local parks and recreation activities. Volunteers can assist with events, programs, and facility maintenance.
How can residents get involved in volunteering? Interested individuals can contact the Parks and Recreation department directly or visit their website to learn about current volunteer opportunities and application processes.
Junior Camp Counselor Program
This program provides valuable leadership experience for teens interested in working with younger children. Junior counselors assist with various summer camp activities and learn important skills in child supervision and program management.
Registration and Program Information
Navigating the registration process for Auburn’s Parks and Recreation programs is straightforward and accessible to all residents.
Online Registration System
Auburn utilizes an online registration platform for most of its programs and activities. This system allows residents to browse available options, register for classes or camps, and make payments securely from home.
What information is needed to register for programs? Typically, you’ll need basic contact information, emergency contact details, and any relevant medical information for participants. Some programs may require additional documentation or waivers.
Program Brochures and Newsletters
The Parks and Recreation department regularly publishes program brochures and newsletters to keep residents informed about upcoming activities and registration deadlines. These resources are available both online and in print at various city facilities.
Auburn’s Parks and Recreation programs offer a wide range of activities and events that cater to diverse interests and age groups. From summer camps and aquatics programs to cultural arts classes and community events, there are ample opportunities for residents to engage, learn, and enjoy throughout the year. By prioritizing accessibility, education, and community involvement, Auburn continues to enhance the quality of life for its residents through these valuable recreational resources.
Parks and Recreation Programs – City of Auburn
Parks and Recreation Programs – City of Auburn
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- Parks and Recreation
Harris Center
425 Perry St
Ann Bergman
Public Relations Specialist
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Current Program Brochures
- 2023 Summer Brochure
- 2023 Spring Brochure
- Events
- Field Trips
- Fitness
- Newsletter
- Programs
- Aquatics Homepage
- FAQs
- Pool Hours
- Pool Rules and Policies
- Programs & Events
- Summer Swim Lessons
- Camp Kaleidoscope
- Gross Out Camp
- Junior Camp Counselor Program
- Athletic Camps
- Cultural Arts Summer Camps
- Special Interest Camps
- Summer Therapeutic Camp
- Dean Road Ceramics Studio
- Childrens Classes
- Adult Classes
- Empty Bowls
- Day in Clay
- JDCAC Home Page
- Visual Arts
- Dance
- Music
- Theatre
- JDCAC Gallery
- Fitness Classes
- Auburn Stride Walkers
- Active Auburn
Special Events and Holiday Happenings
- Auburn CityFest
- Independence Day Celebration
- Holiday Art Sale
- Sundown Concert Series (Fall and Spring)
- Downtown Trick or Treat
- Polar Express
- Daddy Daughter Date Night
- Polar Plunge
- Empty Bowls
- Bark in the Park
- Ride and Seek
- Fishing Rodeo
- SummerNight Downtown Art Walk
- Active Auburn
- Fright Night Movie
- Itty Bitty Auburn Scavenger Hunt
- City Market
- Easter Events
- RC Car Skate Park Takeover
- Homeschool
- Earth Day Plant Identification Walk
- The Louise Kreher Preserve & Nature Center
- Birthdays & Showers
- FLY Program
- Rec.
VIP Volunteer Program - Auburn Board Games
- Citizens’ Climate Education
- Learning to Read
- Parenting an ADHD Child
- Gross Out Camp
- Therapeutics Home Page
- Special Olympics Lee County Home Page
- REGISTER
Parks and Recreation Facilities
Therapeutics Camps – City of Auburn
The 2023 Therapeutic Summer Day Camp (ages 15+) applications will be available Monday, February 14th, 2023. Please contact Elizabeth Kaufman at [email protected] with questions about TR Camp.
Sponsored by Auburn Parks and Recreation.
Camp Hours: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. (Campers can be dropped off beginning at 7:45 a.m. Early drop-offs will NOT be allowed. A late fee of $1 per minute will be charged after the first warning has been issued.
)
Location: Drake Middle School
Information about 2023 camp is below:
Fees*: $125.00, each additional sibling $75.00. Make checks payable to the City of Auburn.
Note: Registration is only open to City of Auburn residents the first two weeks.
*Fees include the following: Healthy snacks, most camp supplies and some field trips. Extra costs might include field trips or special activities.
The 2023 TR Mini Camp (Ages 8-14) registration will open on Monday, February 6, 2023. TR Mini Camp follows the same guidelines and requirements as Therapeutic Summer Day Camp. Dates for the 2023 camp are June 12 – July 26, 2023, Monday-Wednesday each week, 8:30am-12pm.
Camp Summary:
This is a seven week summer day camp designed for young adults with various disabilities (e.g., autism, cerebral palsy, down syndrome, intellectual disabilities, hearing impairments, vision impairments).
The Summer Camp is a joint project created and sponsored by Auburn Parks and Recreation and the Exceptional Outreach Organization. The Therapeutic Summer Camp’s curriculum program includes life skills training, instructional training, team work, social skills, creative opportunities, swimming, and other physical recreation activities (e.g., basketball, bowling, volleyball, soccer).
Camp Requirements:
Campers must be high functioning, mentally disabled citizens who are 15 years and older. Campers must be toilet trained. Campers must dress appropriately – wear closed toe shoes even if not participating in some activities. Pool shoes and/or flip flops are only for swimming. All campers will be expected to have a positive attitude and be positive about themselves and others. Campers will be evaluated on an individual basis.
Application Information & Deadline:
Applications will be available on Monday, February 20, 2023 and the application deadline is Friday, March 24, 2023 at 5 p.
m. Applications can be downloaded here beginning February 20, 2023. All applications and registration fees must be turned in to the Harris Center by this date. If you have any questions, please contact Elizabeth Kaufman, Therapeutic Programs Coordinator, at (334) 501-2939 or [email protected].
Camp Counselor Position Information:
If you are interested in becoming a full or part-time Summer Camp Counselor for the 2023 Summer Therapeutic Camp, please watch the City website for “TR Camp Counselor”. This job is usually posted in late January, early February of each year.
Counselors are expected to supervise campers and participate in daily camp activities. Duties include preparing snacks, supervising all campers, interacting with campers during all activities, planning activities, such as arts and crafts and sports games, etc… All camp counselors must be punctual and reliable. Full-time counselors are preferred (40 hours a week), but part-time counselors (20 hours a week) will also be hired.
