Columbus OH
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After School Programs

Asian American Community Services (AACS)

Supports Asian American and Asian immigrant communities in Ohio. They focus on East, Southeast, South Asian and Pacific Islander communities but assist individuals regardless of ethnic or racial background. Healthy Asian Youth (HAY) provides after-school and summer programming for low-income families. They offer free or low-cost classes for adults for ESL, Citizenship, and cultural arts. They also offer a Family Support Program for victims of crime, Senior citizen outreach, and interpreting and translation services. The Asian Health Initiative (AHI) provides free, culturally and linguistically appropriate services and health screenings for those living under 250% of the Federal Poverty Level.
4700 Reed Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
(614) 220-4023
aacsohio.org

Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Central Ohio

Offers free one-to-one community-based and school-based mentoring programs year-round. They also operate Camp Oty’okwa in Hocking Hills, where they offer a variety of outdoor summer camp experiences for youth.
Central Ohio Office: 1855 East Dublin Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 839-2447
Camp Oty’Okwa: 24799 Purcell Road, South Bloomingville, Ohio 43152
(740) 385-5279
Ohio Offices: bbbsohio.org/locations
bbbscentralohio.org

Boy Scouts of America Simon Kenton Council

The Simon Kenton Council is the Boy Scout chapter for 18 counties in Central and Southern Ohio. Their flagship scouting programs offer personal development, outdoor skills, and community service for boys and girls grades K-12. They also offer specialized mentoring programs for ages 14-20, camps for adult scouts, and summer camps. Scholarships are available for most programs.
807 Kinnear Road, Columbus, Ohio 43212
(614) 436-7200
Simon Kenton Council: skcscouts.org
Boy Scouts of America National: scouting.org

Central Community House and TRANSIT ARTS

Community center serving the Near East neighborhood of Columbus, Ohio. They can help families navigate resources to get help with food, healthcare, employment and housing. They offer housing/rent assistance, soft skills training, employment assistance, financial education, and parenting workshops for adults. Programs for youth include after-school programs, Summer Challenge Day Camp for Grades K-5, and childcare through partnership with Columbus Early Learning Centers. The Village Central Senior Program provides transportation services, wellness programs, and social events for adults ages 60+.  ACE, Academy for Community Entrepreneurs, offers technology and professional development classes. TRANSIT ARTS provides free, year-round cultural arts workshops such as dance crew, music, and fine arts for ages 12-21.

  • Central Community House: 1150 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
    (614) 252-3157
    cchouse.org
  • Transit Arts Studio: 294 Wilson Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43205
    Studio Office: (614) 732-0198
    Program Registration: (380) 265-1775
    transitarts.com

Columbus Literacy Council (CLC)

Offers a variety of free education programs for youth and adults. Adult classes include literacy (financial, workplace and technology literacy), citizenship classes, GED test preparation, and language (ESL/ESOL, Spanish, ASL).They also provide career coaching, supportive services for life transitions or re-entry to the community, supportive services for immigrants and New Americans, and help with utilities. Youth programs include MARVEL*US after school program for TANF-eligible youth ages 5-13, AMP for ages 16-18, and Pathways to Promise for youth ages 13-15 at risk of entering the juvenile justice system.

  • Whitehall: 1394 Courtright Road, Columbus, Ohio 43227
  • Reynoldsburg: 5825 Chantry Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43232
  • Cincinnati: 6644 Coffey Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45230

(614) 282-7661
clcworks.org

Columbus Recreation & Parks Afterschool Rec Club (Formerly Capital Kids)

Free afterschool program for children K-8 to get homework help, a nutritious snack, and recreation activities. The Capital Kids program is hosted at Columbus Recreation & Parks Community Centers. Visit for locations and registration.
columbusrecparks.com/community/arc

Community Parks & Recreation Programs in Your Neighborhood

Columbus has parks and recreation centers throughout the city and surrounding areas. They provide a variety of programs, camps and classes for children, teens and adults. Financial assistance/Scholarships for programs may be available. Click below to find local programs in your neighborhood.

Directions for Youth & Families (DFYF)

Program: Offers youth and their families mental and behavioral health services. Licensed social workers and counselors provide counseling and clinical treatment programs addressing a range of issues including school concerns, sexual abuse, delinquency, domestic violence, family conflict, substance abuse and mental health issues. They also offer parenting classes, free kindergarten readiness programs, and after-school and summer programs at their two youth centers.
Eligibility: Varies per program, serves those from 6 weeks old up to 21 years old.
Cost: Government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource), private insurance and self-pay (sliding scale fees based on income); most programs are free.
Referral: Individuals may refer themselves or be referred by someone else for counseling programs; psychiatric services require referral through a Directions for Youth counselor.

  • DFYF Main Office: 1515 Indianola Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43201
    (614) 294-2661
  • Ohio Avenue Youth Center: 657 South Ohio Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43205
    (614) 258-8043
  • Crittenton Center: 3840 Kimberly Parkway, Columbus, Ohio 43232
    (614) 694-0214

Central Intake: (614) 294-2661
dfyf.org

Femergy

Provides life-skills training, career exploration, college readiness, wellness management, and direct mentorship opportunities for girls, women, and families. GHRO Your Future offers academic and leadership development for girls ages 12-18 through bi-weekly workshops. Applications typically open in August. Femergy Chica Camp is a free week-long, overnight summer camp for middle and high school girls. The GHRO Afterschool program offers free academic support for middle and high school girls once a week. They also offer professional development opportunities for women. The Femergy Center offers a space for professional and personal events, a co-working space, and Zen room for families and entrepreneurs.
49 South Grant Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 653-8454
femergy.org

Girl Scouts of Ohio’s Heartland (GSOH)

Helps girls ages 5-17 build strong self-esteem and learn skills such as teamwork, respect for the environment, STEAM and arts appreciation, financial literacy, and advocacy. Programs include regular events, after school programs, summer camps, and service project opportunities. High schoolers can experience leadership development, explore career opportunities, and apply for college scholarships. Girls can register as part of a troop or individually. Adults can volunteer as troop leaders or seasonally. Membership dues are low-cost and are paid annually.
Girls Scouts Ohio: gsoh.org
Girl Scouts National: girlscouts.org

Girls on the Run (GOTR) Central Ohio

A program for girls in Grades 3-8 to develop physical fitness, communication, empathy, and friendship skills. Trained coaches lead small teams through activities, running games and lessons. The 10-week program runs in the spring and fall seasons and ends in a 5K event. Camp GOTR is a summer camp experience for girls Grades 3-5. Fee assistance is available and they are committed to ensuring access for all participants regardless of financial situation. Programs are available in Franklin, Fairfield, Delaware, Licking, Madison, Knox, Pickaway, and Union Counties. Visit the website to find a program and register.
Main Office: 1145-L Chesapeake Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43212
(614) 681-4687
girlsontheruncentralohio.org

Gladden Community House

Settlement house located in Franklinton serving zip codes 43222, 43223, and 43215. Programs include senior outreach, preschool, youth programming and sports, rent and utility assistance, medical appointments with The Breathing Association, and the Gladden Food Pantry. The food pantry provides home delivery for seniors and disabled residents, and diapers. Some family and youth services require referral from Franklin County Children Services while parenting classes are open to the public. Contact the organization for details.

  • Main Office: 183 Hawkes Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43223
    (614) 227-1600
  • Food Pantry: 318 South Glenwood Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43223
    (614) 228-2498

gladdenhouse.org

Godman Guild

Offers a variety of free work readiness programs. Adult programs include GED preparation, ESL/ESOL, Career Bridges customer service training, and technology classes. Youth programs include after school homework help, mentoring, and career exploration for grades 9-12. Blue Bow Tie offers professional catering services while providing job opportunities to individuals with barriers to employment. Camp Mary Orton offers summer camp experiences for youth ages 6-14, team building retreats, and venue spaces with proceeds supporting Godman Guild programs.
P.O. Box 8100 Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 294-5476
godmanguild.org

Jewish Community Center (JCC) of Greater Columbus

Provides a wide range of recreation and cultural arts opportunities in an inclusive environment defined by Jewish values and culture. All are welcome to participate in their programs. Programs include teen recreation, summer and spring break camps, after school programs, preschool and daycare, fitness classes, theater, and more.

  • JCC College Avenue: 1125 College Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43209
    (614) 231-2731
  • JCC New Albany: 150 East Dublin-Granville Road, New Albany, Ohio 43054
    (614) 855-4885
  • JCC North: 6121 Olentangy River Road, Worthington, Ohio 43085
    (614) 764-2414
  • Hoover Family Park: 4290 East Walnut Street, Westerville, Ohio 43081
    (614) 559-6250

columbusjcc.org

Lead the Way Learning Academy

Provides work readiness, educational enrichment, and youth development in Franklin County. They provide after-school programs at Bridge Gate Community School, Franklinton High, West High, New Albany High, Groveport-Madison High, Horizon Science Academy, The Charles School, and The Graham School. Programs are free for income-eligible families. Their Student Support Program provides hygiene items and food to students 16-21. The 6-week summer program provides paid work development experiences for Franklin County residents ages 16-21. Career pathways for the summer program include construction, medical, logistics, IT, social media, and more; and culminates with job placement.
215 North Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
General Inquiries: (614) 915-0434
Enrollment: (614) 965-8392
ltwohio.org

Proyecto Mariposas

Provides a supportive learning environment for Latina girls ages 2-17 and their mothers/guardians. Their programs focus on self-esteem and culture with the goal of developing brave girls and strong women. Programs include weekly activities for girls and moms, conferences and retreats, service projects, in-school programs, and summer camp opportunities. There is no membership cost.
2330 Airport Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 906-4706
proyectomariposas.org

Remember Us Urban Legends

Provides free trauma-informed, culturally-relevant after-school and summer programs to help teens in Franklin County reach their full potential. Programs include paid job skill & training opportunities, one-on-one mentorship and leadership training, and teen nights. They also host events for parents and community members. Go online to apply.
(614) 342-0505‬
ruurbanlegends.org

St. Stephen’s Community House

Faith-based community center offering a range of services for the Linden-area community. Volunteer opportunities are available for those over the age of 14. Programs include:

  • Mid-Ohio Market: Choice pantry for Franklin County residents. Shop once a week for all pantry items, or daily for fresh produce.
    (614) 338-8220
  • Youth Services: Childcare for children 6 weeks to 5 years at Christ Child Early Learning Center, STEAM after school program for K-6 at participating elementary schools, free Summer STEAM Camp for grades 1-8, and Achieve More and Prosper (AMP) for ages 16-24 to receive help with employment and case management services. They offer a Kinship Aftercare program and Family to Family empowerment program for families referred by FCCS.
  • Senior Services: free lunch program, small group transportation, and case management.
  • Rent & Utility Assistance: Offers financial assistance as funds are available for those in zip codes 43081, 43201, 43229, 43230, 43231, 43211, 43219, 43224. Applicants must apply in-person, be income eligible, and provide required paperwork. Visit the website for full eligibility details. If funds are not available, a housing specialist may be available to help problem solve.
  • Christmas Cares: Offers help with food and toys for Franklin County residents each year. Families must register in advance and provide required documentation.

1500 East Seventeenth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 294-6347
saintstephensch.org

Urban Minority Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Outreach Program (UMADAOP) of Franklin County

Offers substance abuse treatment, prevention, and recovery support programs for communities of color in Central Ohio using culturally specific, evidence-based strategies. They offer anger management, domestic violence prevention and parenting classes for adults. Youth programming includes in-school, after-school, and summer camp. They also offer training opportunities for professionals and events for the community. Call or email the organization to register for a program.
700 Bryden Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Main Office: (614) 227-9694
Treatment Center: (614) 721-9362
umadaopfc.com

YMCA of Central Ohio

Hosts programs for all ages, including health and fitness, swimming, childcare, summer camps, juvenile justice, and housing services. Programs include:

  • Healthy Living Programs: Y Members can access swim lessons, group fitness classes, personal training, lifeguard & CPR training, and more. Programs for youth include School Days Off programs, summer camps, leadership, teen programs, and more. Financial assistance is available for membership fees.
  • CareSource YMCA Membership Benefit: Children or adults with a diagnosis of diabetes, obesity, or hypertension with CareSource can receive free YMCA membership as part of their insurance benefit. The benefit must be renewed every 6 months.
  • Child Care Centers: Offers full-day childcare for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old at YMCA Early Learning Centers.
    • YMCA Early Learning Center: 2879 Johnstown Road, Columbus, Ohio 43219
      (614) 342-5836
    • YMCA Early Learning Center West: 1952 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43223
      (614) 752-8877
  • Early Childhood Programs: Offers Head Start Programs, Preschool, and Kindergarten Jump Start Summer Program at various YMCA locations. Free or low-cost Preschool may be available for qualifying families through the ECE Grant Program. Families can also access free childcare while adults use the Y facilities.
    Head Start: (614) 389-3880
    Preschool & Kindergarten Jump Start: (614) 288-8084
  • Early Childhood Resource Network Plus (ECRN+): Programs for children with special healthcare needs, developmental disabilities, and delays. Services include early intervention for ages 0-3, developmental screenings for ages 3-5, speech therapy, and SPARK school readiness. Families can apply online for an adaptive equipment loan.
  • Housing: Provides supportive housing and wraparound case management services for adults facing homelessness in Columbus, Ohio. This program is referral only. Call the Franklin County Homeless Hotline at (614) 274-7000 for immediate assistance.
  • PALS Juvenile Justice: Provides a structured and supervised environment for 6-12th grade students as an alternative to being suspended from school. Students must be referred by their school district.
    (614) 578-7568
  • Y Cares: Supports families who are pregnant or have infants under the age of 1. Includes free pregnancy tests, emergency diapers, formula and baby supplies, counseling, and more.
    (614) 689-2080
  • YMCA Stable Families: Families with children (from Pre-K to 12th grade) who live in Franklin County can access a service coordinator who can help with household income, maintaining safe and stable housing, and academic achievement of school-aged children.
    (614) 813-1226

Columbus Locations:

  • Delaware: 1121 South Houk Road, Delaware, Ohio 43015
    (614) 389-4648
  • Eldon & Elsie Ward: 130 Woodland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43203
    (614) 389-4643
  • Gahanna/John E. Bickley: 555 YMCA Place, Gahanna, Ohio 43230
    (614) 389-4529
  • Grove City: 3600 Discover Drive, Grove City Ohio 43123
    (614) 389-4567
  • Hilliard/Ray Patch Family: 4515 Cosgray Road, Hilliard, Ohio 43026
    (614) 389-4557
  • Hilltop: 2879 Valleyview Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43204
    (614) 389-4565
  • Jerry L. Garver: 6767 Refugee Road, Canal Winchester, Ohio 43110
    (614) 389-4556
  • Liberty Township/Powell: 7798 Liberty Road North, Powell, Ohio 43065
    (614) 389-4566
  • North: 1640 Sandalwood Place, Columbus, Ohio 43229
    (614) 389-4707
  • Pickaway County: 440 Nicholas Drive, Circleville, Ohio 43113
    (614) 389-4650
  • Reynoldsburg: 1470 Davidson Drive, Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068
    (614) 689-2040
  • Whitehall: 402 North Hamilton Road, Whitehall, Ohio 43213
    (614) 689-2050
  • Early Learning Center: 2879 Johnstown Road, Columbus, Ohio 43219
    (614) 342-5836
  • Early Learning Center West: 1952 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43223
    (614) 752-8877

Website: ymcacolumbus.org

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