Youth Programs is offering a variety of Summer Camp programming for youth ages 3 – 16
Summer Jams Summer Camp
Facilitated by Newport News Parks & Recreation Youth Programs
Explore transformative experiences designed to empower and inspire the youth of Newport News!
Programs and activities offer a unique blend of fun, learning, and personal growth, all within a supportive and inclusive environment.
About
The Newport News Youth THRIVE (Transforming Hearts, Renewing Investment, Valuing Empowerment) Initiative is a comprehensive program designed to empower and support the youth of Newport News, Virginia. Youth THRIVE aims to create a community where every young person has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.
Youth THRIVE News
Stay tuned for more news about the Youth THRIVE initiative!
Mayor Jones Unveils Youth Initiative Program (May 20, 2024)
Synethia White Appointed as Newport News' First Community Violence Prevention Manager (November 15, 2024)
Youth THRIVE
Community Coalition
The Youth THRIVE Community Coalition is looking to partner with businesses and community leaders to affect positive change in the lives of Newport News’ youth. Click below to e-mail us with "Become A Partner" in the subject line.
Other Resources
The Student Freedom Pass provides people ages 13 – 17 years old with unlimited FREE rides on Hampton Roads Transit’s bus, ferry, and light rail services.
If you and your child are currently homeless, at risk of losing housing, or require food assistance, please click the links below.
Youth Leadership Opportunities
Registration is currently closed.
Follow our social media pages for updates.
Mayor’s Youth CommissionAddresses concerns and issues identified by youth; reports recommendations to Mayor; and implements identified solutions.Typically consists of 30 – 45 youth representatives and 1 – 3 adults.
Newport News Arts CommissionSupports arts and cultural activities within the City of Newport News.Typically consists of 2 youth representatives and 10 adults.
Newport News Human Rights CommissionSafeguards all individuals within the city from unlawful discrimination; preserves the public safety and health of our community; and furthers the rights of citizens within the city.Typically consists of 2 youth representatives and 9 adults.
Newport News Public Library Board of TrusteesAdvises the Director of Library and Information Services and the City Manager and makes recommendations on policy and administration on any library matters.Typically consists of 2 youth representatives and 10 adults.
Youth Career Program
We invite our Youth THRIVE Fellows, young adults (ages 16 – 24), to learn, explore, and thrive through the Youth Career Program. Through paid work experience and hands-on learning, YCP helps young adults gain independence, explore career opportunities, and earn income this summer. YCP equips participants with essential workplace skills and fosters social, civic, and leadership growth.
Night Nets
| AGES 16 – 17 | AGES 18 + |
|---|---|
| 6 – 8 p.m. | 8:30 – 11 p.m. |
Newport News youth ages 16 and up are invited to Denbigh Community Center and An Achievable Dream Tennis Center every Friday from May 16 through August 22 for basketball, FREE food, community resources, e-gaming, and much more!
Mayor's Youth Commission & Other Youth Leadership Opportunities
Newport News encourages youth to make a difference in their city! High school students in Newport News can apply to join one of our boards or commissions and become a youth leader.Registration is closed.
NNPD Community Youth & Outreach Division (CYOD)
Citizen Police Academy for Youth
June 16 – June 20, 2025
Ages 14 – 17
Camp Community Connection
July 7 – July 11, 2025
Ages 14 – 17
Drone Response Unit Camp
July 21 – July 24, 2025
For rising 6th – 8th graders
For more information or to register for any CYOD programs, call 757-975-5100 or email [email protected].
Innovation & STEM Adventures
Youth can visit the Brooks Crossing Innovation Lab for a variety of STEM-related workshops and camps. STEM programs and activities are also offered through Newport News Public Schools (NNPS).
CURRENT & UPCOMING PROGRAMMING
Current 10th graders are eligible to applyThe Maritime Engineering and Environmental Studies Academy (MEESA) is a magnet school option for NNPS students for the 2025 – 2026 school year.
2nd – 6th Graders
1st – 6th Graders
K – 6th Graders
History & Culture
in Newport News
Learn about the history of the city by visiting the sites that shaped the culture of Newport News.
Learn & Have Fun
at Newport News Public Library
Newport News Public Library (NNPL) is so much more than books! Head to one of our three branches for STEM activities, drawing sessions, drama classes, art workshops, and more!
Music & Theater at Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center
From FREE weekly movies to youth clubs, sessions, plays and more, the Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center (DGCAC) is the place to be for enriching and engaging summer fun. Soundscapes also offers music instruction and activities!
CURRENT & UPCOMING ACTIVITIES
AGES 7 – 15
AGES 8 – 25
AGES 7 – 17
AGES 9 – 18
Explore & Create Art
There are plenty of opportunities for youth to explore art throughout the city and to channel their own inner artist.
CURRENT & UPCOMING PROGRAMMING
AGES 7 – 17
AGES 9 – 18
AGES 5 – 13
AGES 9 – 18
Parks, Recreation,
& Special Events
Newport News' dynamic facilities offer a variety of programs and resources from basketball and tennis to aquatics and e-gaming! Youth can also enjoy walking and hiking, as well as biking, beaches, fishing, archery, bird watching, disc golfing, and more in one of our 36 parks. Don't forget to check out the fun and FREE special events for young people and families!
CURRENT & UPCOMING ACTIVITIES
AGES 8+
AGES 2 – 15
Download the Youth THRIVE app!
About
Transforming Hearts. Renewing Investment. Valuing Empowerment
Youth THRIVE was born out of a bold vision to invest in the future of Newport News by uplifting and empowering our youth at every stage of their development. Launched as part of the Mayor’s “Year of the Youth” initiative, Youth THRIVE is a movement dedicated to nurturing the potential of the youngest residents of our city and building strong community connections.Our mission is simple — to create meaningful opportunities for young people to grow, lead, and succeed. We recognize that youth development isn’t one-size-fits-all, which is why our programming is designed around three unique age-based groups, each with their own focus, needs, and empowering tagline.
THRIVE Explorers
Ages 3 – 9
"Growing Little Minds for BIG Futures"
THRIVE Explorers introduces our youngest residents to a world of learning, discovery, and imagination. Through early childhood enrichment, creative play, and foundational learning activities, we help spark curiosity and set the stage for lifelong success. Parents and caregivers are key partners in helping Explorers flourish as they begin their journey.THRIVE Builders
Ages 10 – 15
"Discover. Believe. Achieve."
In this exciting middle phase, THRIVE Builders are encouraged to explore their interests, develop new skills, and gain confidence in who they are becoming. Our programs focus on self-discovery, leadership development, academic support, and character building to help them navigate life with purpose and pride.THRIVE Fellows
Ages 16 – 24
"Your Journey. Your Voice. Your Impact."
THRIVE Fellows are emerging leaders, ready to shape their future and the world around them. This group benefits from mentorship, career readiness, college and workforce pathways, community engagement, and personal development opportunities. We empower Fellows to find their voice, lead with vision, and thrive in every aspect of life.
Youth THRIVE is a commitment from the City of Newport News to every young person — affirming that their voice matters, their dreams are valid, and their potential is limitless. Together, we’re building a city where youth of all ages are not only supported but celebrated.Join us — and let’s THRIVE together!