Youth Activities and Programs
Content added Feb. 7, 2025
The Day Dreams Foundation eliminates financial barriers to participating in extracurricular activities and promotes healthy lifestyles, goal setting, academics, teamwork and respect for others. Our goal is for every child can fulfill their dream of participating in an extracurricular activity without ever worrying about the cost.
1 E Broadway, Suite C
Columbia, MO 65203
573-214-2600
Content updated May 7, 2025
Summer Academy serves students 3-12 years old. Learning and fun are combined using IXL educational enrichment. This software is a teaching tool that continually enhances participants’ mathematic and language arts skills and helps decrease potential learning loss that can happen during summer downtime. The summer program also includes a nutritious breakfast, lunch, educational enrichment, Science and discovery projects, swimming, and weekly field trips.
The summer session is from 7:30 am – 5:30 pm and runs June 2nd – August 8th , 2025. Cost is $150 a week per student with limited scholarships available. UCB Academy also accepts Mo State Child Care Subsidy.
7:30 am to 5:30 pm
617 N Providence Road
Columbia, Mo 65203
573-447-7351
Email: ucschoolhouse@ucbuilders.org
Content added Dec. 20, 2024
Grieving children age 0-18; Parents of grieving children
We work with organizations to provide a care pack of grief activities and books for children and teens who are grieving the death of parent, sibling, or other significant caregiver. Downloadable materials are available free to individuals on our website.
Content added June 26, 2024
STEM Cubs is an organization through Mizzou that holds free STEM camps for kids K-8. In these events, kids learn and receive hands on experience with lessons and activities pertaining to STEM. They offer morning and afternoon camp sessions for all ages.
This Summer’s event is to be held Saturday, July 13th. Visit their website at https://diversity.missouri.edu/program/stem-cubs/ for more information.
Youth at risk of or experiencing homelessness
Content updated Aug. 22, 2025
ABA Commission on Homelessness and Poverty Homeless Youth Legal Network Directory
Homeless Youth Legal Network Directory
· A project of the American Bar Association Commission on Homelessness and Poverty.
· Provides information on legal services for youth experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Legal Services Map
· Interactive map by state/territory to find free legal services.
· Contact HYLN at hyln@americanbar.org for updates or to report issues with listed programs.
About HYLN
· Increases information regarding, and access to, legal services for homeless youth.
· Focuses on civil, juvenile, and criminal defense legal matters.
· Provides a directory, listserv, model programs, and various resources
HYLN main website: https://www.americanbar.org/groups/public_interest/homelessness_poverty/initiatives/hyln/
Map of legal resources by state: https://youthhomelessnessindex.org/legal-help/
Content updated May 10, 2024
Warm Summer days are approaching, and the coolest place to be is Columbia Art League (CAL) Summer Art Camp! With lots of themed camps to choose from, there is sure to be something for everyone. This year, CAL is offering 10 different camps for kids ages 6 - 16!
🌟Each camp runs Monday - Friday and has a fun, engaging theme!🌟Students will be provided with quality art instruction that strengthens art technique and skill while encouraging creative expression!
🌟Scholarships are also available! Email mary@columbiaartleague.org with any inquiries.
Content updated May 6, 2024
There’s a new option in Columbia this summer for parents looking for fun-filled educational programs for their children ages 6-14 on summer vacation. Hexagon Alley, the board game café that opened downtown last year, will host its version of “summer camp” from June through August. The curriculum strategically uses board games that build upon the neurodevelopmental functions of the brain and encourage the use of critical thinking, inference skills, teamwork and good sportsmanship.
“Summer camp” at Hexagon Alley begins June 10 and sign-ups are underway now. You can find more information here.
Content updated May 24, 2024
Borrow everything you need for a fishing adventure with Missouri River Relief’s FREE Catfishing Gear Library in Columbia, Missouri! The gear library includes all the catfishing essentials like poles, bait, and tackle. Whether you're new to fishing, haven't been since childhood, or have always been curious about fishing at the River - the gear library is for you! Catfish Gear Library. You can check out the gear or select the option to book a time with our catfishing instructors!
Kristen Schulte (she/her), Education Director, Missouri River Relief
Office 573-443-0292
Mobile 636-288-5570
Children aged 8-18
Content updated Sept. 8, 2025
We go beyond traditional after-school care by combining academic support, social-emotional learning, and life skills training in one program. Every participant engages in evidence-based SEL curricula that address conflict resolution, goal setting, resilience, and positive decision-making.
Culturally Responsive & Trauma-Informed Environment
Strong Community & School Partnerships
Transportation Support
Proven Track Record of Impact
Commitment to Long-Term Success
203 N. Providence Road, Suite 201
Columbia, MO
Hours: 8am-3pm (Active Learners Day Program); 3:30pm-7pm (After School Program)
(573) 777-4240
support@peaceandhopecenterforyouth.com
Content updated May 13, 2025
Young Life is a relational oriented youth ministry working with local high school and college students. We provide mentoring relationship, club meetings, small groups, and summer camp opportunities.
Columbia Young Life
PO Box 10144
Columbia, MO
(573) 424-0457
Email: younglifecolumbia@gmail.com
Please contact to schedule a meeting time.
This indoor facility is used for basketball, volleyball, meetings, aerobics, events, and after school programs. The Community Recreation and C.A.R.E. (Career Awareness Related Experience) programs along with the CoMo Bike Co-op are located in the Armory. When not in program use, the gymnasium and other rooms are available for public rental.
701 E Ash
Columbia, MO 65201
Front Desk: 573-817-5077
Community Recreation Department: Camren Cross 573-874-6378
CARE Office: Ron Schmidt 573-874-6300
Visit website
Content updated Nov. 26, 2024
TRYPS Children's Theater (Theater Reaching Young People & Schools) is a not-for-profit children's theater in Columbia, MO, and the only year-round theater company in the area offering programming for young people ages 4-21.
Our mission is to teach, reach, and inspire through the magic of theater. We teach children about the performing arts, reach those young people who would not otherwise get to experience live theater, and inspire kids of all ages to find their own creative voices.
2300 Bernadette Dr. #918
Columbia, MO 65203
573-449-4536
Email: trypskids@gmail.com
The Dance Academy Inclusive provides a safe environment and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities to participate in dance classes that promote social interaction and the development of gross motor, coordination and balance skills. ALL genders and ability levels are welcome.
3211 S. Providence Rd.
Columbia, MO 65203
573-864-1880
Email: director@thedanceacademycomo.com
Content update March 20, 2024
At CMAS, there is a class for everyone! In addition to being the #1 Competitive Cheer Gym in Columbia, we also excel in tumbling and recreational cheer classes. CMAS, where EVERYONE is a star! Our Gym features a Full size competition floor, 36ft X 42ft dead mat, 30ft tumble track leading into resi pit, 20 ft ceilings, and in house award winning choreography!
1501 I-70 Complex Court
Columbia, MO
(573) 825-3158
The after-school program is targeted towards children ages 8 years old up to 18 years old.
Content updated Sept. 16, 2024
At Dream Tree Academy 573, we stand committed to shaping tomorrow’s leaders through an innovative blend of education and entrepreneurship. Our mission is clear: to ignite the sparks of learning and creativity within our youth. Through vibrant after-school programs in music, graphic design, financial literacy, and mental health, we don’t just teach – we transform.
9 am to 5 pm Office hours
4 pm to 8 pm After school program
800 Cherry St, Suite 201
Columbia, MO 65201
(573) 777-9704
Content updated 4/2/25
UPDATE 4/2/25: This program won't be offered again until the 2025-2026 school year.
105 E Ash St., Ste 200
Columbia, MO 65203
573-882-2428
Content updated Aug. 14, 2024
The Moving Ahead Program is a high-quality, state-licensed, after-school, and summer program in the J.W. “Blind” Boone Community Center that provides an effective mix of one-on-one tutoring and fun cultural and physical activities for children in Kindergarten through 12th grade. MAP offers wrap-around services, including an extensive family development and education program, to ensure that the student and the whole family can build healthy social connections, overcome personal barriers, and grow!
Afterschool hours: 2:30 - 6:30 pm; Office Hours: 10:30 am - 6:30 pm.
Michaela Flores, MAP Assistant Program Coordinator, Email 301 N Providence Rd
Columbia, MO 65203
573-443-2556 Ext 1283
Granny’s House offers a number of different programs for children of all ages including: a science club for kids in 5th grade and above, precious jewels for 1st through 4th-grade girls, princess academy for 5th, 6th, and 7th-grade girls who learn what it means to be daughters of the King, Sons of the King for boys who are 10 years and older, a homework motivation program, and a movie/book club.
110 E Worley
Columbia, MO 65203
573-442-5683
Email: pam@grannyshouse.org
Content updated Jan. 8, 2024
Grade A Plus provides one-to-one and small group academic support services for students in K-2nd grade, 3rd-8th grade and 9th-12th grade. GAP partners with community educators and the University of Missouri, to provide tutors, mentors, and enrichment leaders to work with youth. Both graduate and undergraduate students with concentrations in Education, Human Development, Math, and STEM related majors support the learning needs of students enrolled. Services are on-site and through Zoom.
Administrative Office Location
601 Bus. Loop, I-70 West, Suite 106
Columbia, MO 65203
573-213-6095
Email: gapinfo@gradeaplusinc.org
Content updated Jan. 23, 2024
Fun City Youth Academy is a 501-c-3 nonprofit organization that provides year-round programming in a safe and stimulating environment to help youth reach their full potential. For over 50 years, Fun City has offered programs that combine academic work with activities that promote cultural awareness and build positive self-worth.
310 Tiger Ln, Suite 101
Columbia, MO 65203
573-256-1436
Email
Content updated March 20, 2024
CYBA provides a safe and fun environment for young people grades 1-12 to improve their basketball skills, while emphasizing sportsmanship, honesty and integrity.
PO Box 30725
Columbia, MO 65205
573-875-8124
Email: cybabasketball@gmail.com
Content updated Jan. 10, 2024
Center Stage is a non-profit organization that offers free dance classes to PreK-5th grade students. Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, and Poms are on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays respectively, with PreK-2nd grade classes held at 6pm and 3-5th grade classes at 7pm. The classes are taught by college students at Strickland Hall on the Mizzou campus. New classes start each semester, and a recital is held at the end of the semester to showcase the students' hard work. Costumes are provided free of charge by Center Stage. If interested, reach out to Center Stage via email or visit their facebook page.
2500 MU Student CenterEmail: mizzoucenterstage@gmail.com
A free camp for middle school students that focuses on planning for the future. Camp CaPow (College Access; Planning Our Way) is a week-long experience during spring break that benefits middle-school youth. During the camp, participants explore post-high school opportunities. May be suspended due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Call or email for more information or to register.
105 E Ash St
Columbia, MO 65203
Provides musical instruments to children who wish to learn a musical instrument but are unable to cover costs associated with rental and maintenance. No Cost.
James Melton
573-214-3400, ext 25716
Email: jmelton@cpsk12.org
Content updated Aug. 12, 2024
Boys and Girls Club of Columbia is a positive and safe after school program that provides mentorship, homework help, and opportunities for kids to grow into the best versions of themselves. Afterschool programming is limited and takes place at our clubhouse facility (1200 N. 7th Street, Columbia, MO) from the time the school dismissal bell rings to 6:30 p.m.
1200 N 7th Street
Columbia, MO 65201
573-874-1697
A week-long summer camp for young black & brown women ages 12-17 to learn new things and meet new people in an academy-type setting. Profiles speakers, provides enrichment opportunities, leadership training, education and positive identity development. The camp is completely free to participants.
Monday-Sunday: 8am - 6pm
1201 E. Broadway, Ste. D
Columbia, MO. 65202
Email: theboldacademycomo@gmail.com
Content updated Jan. 23, 2024
We serve children facing adversity between 5 and 18 years of age that live in Boone, Audrain and Randolph counties. BBBSCMO operates on a model of long-term one-on-one mentoring.
4250 E Broadway Blvd, Suite 1067
Columbia, MO 65201
573-874-3677
Children 3-5 years of age, not enrolled in kindergarten, are eligible to participate.
Content updated Nov. 22, 2024
Jumpstart is a free kindergarten readiness program that helps prepare children to enter school ready to succeed. Children are matched with a Jumpstart member for one-to-one tutoring in a fun, safe, active learning environment. Children read books, sing songs, and explore new ideas focused on building their language, literacy, social and emotional skills. Children selected for enrollment attend on Tuesdays and Thursdays, October through May. Children may arrive as early as 3:00PM but must check-in by 4:00PM to enroll. Tutoring sessions end at 5:45PM. Jumpstart is not a drop-in program. Children selected for enrollment attend tutoring sessions each Tuesday and Thursday.
OFFICE: 201G Student Success Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
Office hours M-F 8:00AM-5:00PM.
TUTORING SITES: The Family Impact Center, 105 East Ash Street, Columbia MO, OR Karis Church, 606 Ridgeway, Columbia MO
Tutoring services Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3:00PM-5:45PM.
(573) 882-8942
Email: dicksoncn@missouri.edu
No website