On October 23, 2024, the Youth Services Department conducted a virtual meeting to provide key insight for summer camp providers interested in joining the Summer Camp Scholarship Program (SCSP), which is funded by the Children's Services Council (CSC) and Palm Beach County Youth Services. The session attracted over 87 participants eager to learn more about the program's goals and application process.
Key Highlights of the Session
- Presentation by Allison Conyers: A video presentation from the CSC representative outlined the program's mission and vision.
- Overview of the SCSP: The program offers free summer camp opportunities to children ages 5-17 from low-income families across Palm Beach County, covering full tuition for both educational and recreational growth.
- 2025 Provider Applications: Attendees received detailed guidance on application procedures and key timelines.
- 11th Annual Super Summer Spelling Bee: Information was shared about this exciting event, scheduled for summer 2025.
- Camp Monitoring: Insights were provided on monitoring requirements
- Parent Applications: SCSP will begin accepting applications for Summer 2025 on January 27, 2024.
- Funding Opportunities: Community-based agencies were encouraged to look out for YSD's Notice of Funding Opportunities (NOFO) to be posted in Spring 2025.
Program Impact
The SCSP has made a lasting impact in Palm Beach County, with over $25 million invested in scholarships between 2018 and 2024. In 2023, more than 4,800 scholarships were utilized, and 2024 set a new record with 5,252 scholarships awarded.
This year, 85 camps participated in the program, including:
- 23 Educational Enrichment Camps serving 1,684 campers
- 11 Specialty Camps serving 453 campers
- 3 Special Needs Camps serving 31 campers
- 48 Regular Camps serving 2,663 campers
The growth and success of the SCSP reflect the collective commitment to enriching the lives of children throughout Palm Beach County. Interested providers are encouraged to apply and be a part of this impactful initiative in the years to come!
For more information on the Summer Camp Scholarship program or how to apply, visit our website or contact us directly at 561-242-5738 or https://discover.pbc.gov/youthservices/Pages/Summer_Camp.aspx .