School’s out forever... Okay, just for the summer.
The school year draws to a close tomorrow + St. Pete Mayor Ken Welch just announced multiple efforts geared toward the community’s children.
First, the mayor launched a new program called “Not My Child,” according to a release. Formerly known as “Not My Son,” the initiative seeks to “encourage positive enrichment for youth, share strong anti-violence/pro-community messages, and promote safe neighborhoods.”
“It is up to us to create a safe environment where our residents can feel secure, while ensuring that our youth and families can make their voices heard and access the resources they need to thrive,” Mayor Welch said in the release.
The program will host its first neighborhood walk this Friday, May 26. Meet at the Mt. Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church (4000 5th Ave. S.) at 6 p.m. for a canvassing walk letting residents know about local education and other opportunities.
Can’t make this week’s walk? The group will hit the pavement every Friday this summer.
The city will also host a new set of town halls, “It Takes A Village - Community Conversations with Mayor Welch.” The series of conversations (and smaller meetings) will include other elected officials, kids, parents, teachers, nonprofits, and other folks that touch the lives of young people. The city will use the intel and conversations to inform future youth efforts.
Plus, Welch reminded residents of the slew of programs to keep the kids engaged and busy all summer long. Offerings include more traditional programming like golf and swimming, but also interests like gardening and tech. Check out the listings.
Still looking for the right option for your family? Never fear, we pulled together a roundup of kid-friendly activities, water parks, and summer camps to check out.