Programs for Teens in Westchester
There are numerous programs for kids throughout Westchester, ranging from dance classes to theater to sports. However, when kids reach the teen years they may not want to do the same programs they enjoyed when they were younger. Luckily, there are numerous programs for teens in Westchester that offer new opportunities such as leadership building, volunteer opportunities, skill building, and more. Read on to discover some incredible ways to foster their involvement in the community as they make friends and have fun.
Check out these Girl Empowerment Programs and Classes in Westchester
Westchester Youth Alliance
This organization is made up of a group of teenagers from all over Westchester County. They come together to create youth-led peer education, leadership opportunities, and organize local community service events. Some recent events include a community farm harvest vegetable event at Hilltop Hanover Farm in support of Second Chance Foods; community dinners; a talk with Governor Hochul about teen mental health; an end-of-summer bonfires: and more. Additionally, teens will be helping the community, growing their network of friends and learning leadership and presentation skills. To sign up, parents and teens should contact ED@westchesteryouthalliance.org.
White Plains Youth Bureau
The White Plains Youth Bureau offers a variety of programs for teens. This includes career training, life skills, and various classes/workshops for ages 5-24. Some upcoming programs include babysitter training, a workforce development academy for youth, a job bank, summer employment, photography and videography workshops, a youth mentoring club, a healthy living club, and much more. Most of the programs are free. Check out their website often for recent programming opportunities and how to apply.
Learning Camps for Kids and Teens
Westchester Community College (in their Peekskill location) offers a wide-range of STEAM-based classes for kids and teens over the summer. Programming includes digital art for kids, mixed media printmaking, coding for kids, filmmaking, 3D animation, Computer Aided Design for teens, and more. Parents can call 914-606-7300 to register.
Westchester Junior and Senior Youth Councils
Family Services of Westchester’s Youth Council program that fosters leadership, education, and civic engagement opportunities to teens of all backgrounds in Westchester. This includes the Junior Council program for middle schoolers (ages 10-14) and the Senior Council program for high school students (ages 15-18). Opportunities for the Junior Council program include community service, field trips and more. The Senior Council program offers leadership training, education, and skill-building workshops. Additionally, they have a Youth Action Training educational conference. Through this program, teens learn more about important issues, build leadership skills, and connect with their peers. Some topics include climate change, public speaking, sustainable architecture, anti-racism, LGBTQ+ workshops, and more. Check out more info on how to apply here.
Community Residence for Children and Adolescents
This program is for boys (ages 13-17) who are diagnosed with a Severe Emotional Disturbance. Through the program, participants receive clinical treatment (therapy and psychiatric services) provided by local providers. Advocacy and strong relationships with the local school district enable each youth to maximize his academic and social success.
Local Libraries
Many local libraries offer an extensive list of after-school and weekend programs for teens. At the White Plains Library, you’ll find programs such as ‘After Hours at the Library’ where teens (grades 9-12) can enjoy evening activities such as karaoke, video games, a photobooth, crafts, and more; art programs; movies; and opportunities to volunteer. The Chappaqua Public Library offers an extensive range of free programs for teens such as a garden club, a Friday night hang, movies and more. At the Mamaroneck Public Library teens can enjoy book-based trivia, SAT/ACT prep, coding classes for girls, and opportunities to be on the teen council board to help with programming opportunities. Additionally, the Ossining Public Library offers a range of programs for teens such as movies, food tastings, help with homework, and even TikTok dance challenges where you can battle your fellow teens in a dance-off.
