Spotlight on: Youth Enrichment Program

Before applications open, we want to share what this program really looks like for Coast Guard families.

Summer hits differently in Coast Guard life. Kids are out of school, parents are managing demanding schedules, and for many families it is also the season of moves. New duty station, new town, new routines, new friends.

The youth enrichment program helps make that season a little easier.

It meets families wherever they are, from small remote towns in Alaska to busy coastal cities and gives them the flexibility to choose what works for their kids. For some, that means a local day camp. For others, it is an overnight camp, a STEM program, sports, music or something totally new.

And for many families, support happens right at home. About a third use their grant to purchase an iPad, Kindle or Chromebook so their kids can keep reading, learning and exploring all summer long. It is a different kind of enrichment, but just as meaningful.

There is no one right way to use it, and that is the point.

“Thank you for this program. Summer camps can be very expensive, and this allowed my child to have a wonderful week.”  - The Lamb family, Connecticut

For some families, the impact is about access.

One Coast Guard family used their grant to send their daughter to a therapeutic riding camp. Programs like that can be hard to find and often come with a high cost. This gave her the chance to build confidence and independence while doing something she loves.

“This grant allowed our daughter to participate in an inclusive camp where she could simply be a kid. We’re incredibly thankful to the Coast Guard Foundation for making this opportunity possible for our family.”  - The Scheibelhut family, Virginia

For others, it is about growth you can actually see.

Emma spent her summer at 4-H Camp, first as a camper and then as a junior counselor. She was kayaking, swimming, tackling the ropes course and learning how to lead at the same time.

“This experience has built her confidence and multitasking skills. She's made friends outside of her school who have a positive influence,” shared her parents.

Sometimes it opens a door no one saw coming.

“Thank you for all you do to provide grants for camps and other education opportunities. My son thrived in his acting camp and now is interested in being a director. It’s been so amazing to give him the opportunity to explore his passions. This opportunity may not have been granted otherwise, and my family would like to let you know we are grateful!” - The George family, Virginia.

And sometimes it is simply about helping families get through a busy season.

“The Coastie Camper grant is appreciated and helps our family manage our busy military schedules with both parents on active duty.” - the Hamilton-Grant family, Florida.

Moves, deployments, long days, constant change. When kids have a place to go, something to look forward to, and people around them, it takes some of that pressure off at home.

It can also give kids something steady to hold onto.

“Our son loves hockey and it is the constant that keeps him happy throughout all the PCS moves and new friends. This camp has been a dream of his for 3 years and he finally qualified through tryouts and had funding through you! Thank you for keeping this Coastie Kid happy.”  -the Dunn family, Florida.

At the end of the day, this program is about kids being kids. Trying something new, building confidence, finding their people, and carrying those experiences with them long after summer ends.

And for Coast Guard families, it is a reminder that their kids matter, and that they are supported every step of the way.