Mayor Keller Gives Update on One ABQ Youth Programs for Summer
May 4, 2021
Today, Mayor Tim Keller and One Albuquerque: Youth Connect announced that the lottery registration is open now for all-day, COVID-safe summer youth programs at community centers and multi-generational centers throughout Albuquerque. Lottery registration will be open for two weeks, and families will be notified and provided with registration instructions once they are selected. If available spots fill up, families can be placed on a waitlist. Swimming, metro league and racquet sports programs will begin registration on May 8.
Parents can visit yc.cabq.gov for dates and to register.
“We know that our youth programs have been a lifeline for working families over the past year, and we look forward to welcoming more kids back this summer, said Mayor Tim Keller. “Every kid in our city should have the opportunity to stay safe and engaged.”
Mayor Tim Keller’s administration brought the many departments that offer out-of-school time youth events and programs together under One ABQ: Youth Connect. Now families can find out about all of the youth events and programs in one place – whether it’s a day at Camp Fearless with the Albuquerque Police Department or all summer long at a Community Center.
Earlier this year, the City released its Summer Youth Programs Catalog -- a listing of all City of Albuquerque current and upcoming program information from all departments for Summer 2021. Families can find a wide variety of opportunities to help kids stay safe and engaged. The catalog provides registration dates and information, program dates, locations, and COVID-safety guidelines parents need to sign their kids up for a wide variety of affordable programs in the region.
“Each summer, there is a high demand for these programs and we want as many kids as possible to have the opportunity to get involved,” said Cristin Chavez-Smith, Division Manager, Family and Community Services. “Parents are encouraged to sign up for as many locations as they can, so they have the best chance at getting a spot.”
As restrictions in the Public Health Order change, Youth Connect will continue to adapt and modify its programs with the goal of continuing to offer as many opportunities as possible for families who need them. Opportunities for youth employment will also ramp up as restriction lift. Every year, the City typically hires more than 1,000 local youth to support various programs across many departments. All job listings can be found at cabq.gov/jobs.
“Working for the City has allowed me to make a positive impact in the lives of many kids, just as they have positively impacted mine,” said Katelyn Johnson, Site Supervisor & Youth Employee. “I would highly encourage teenagers and young adults from across Albuquerque to apply to work in one of our summer programs.”
The City’s summer meal program resumes June 1. No registration is required and meals are served on a first come first serve basis.
The City has programs for youth ages newborn through high school. Registration for City youth programs and events is available at yc.cabq.gov.