These foundational programs are offered at every R-Center to keep youth physically active, mentally engaged and emotionally supported in the presence of caring adults. 

R-Teens: An open recreation program in the afterschool hours geared towards the interests of teens and young adults, ages 13 to 18. Activities include sport and fitness, dance and step, gaming, socializing with friends, field trips, special events and more!

R-Stars Afterschool: An open recreation program in the afterschool hours that provides children ages 6 to 12 a fun and nurturing environment in the presence of caring adults. Youth participate in a variety of recreational activities that keep them moving, engaged and supported. Dinner is provided.

Young People Advancing Forward: A youth development group that helps youth improve life skills through educational workshops, service learning, field trips, and more. To see the specific age for participants at each R-Center, visit their R-Center page.

Youth Voice One Vision: A program for youth of all ages that promotes self-advocacy and team building by offering opportunities to plan and participate in social events and engage in the democratic process to influence and implement R-Center programs and activities. Each R-Center YVOV Committee elects representatives to the Citywide YVOV Executive Committee, which serves as Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council.

Each R-Center offers a selection of customized activities, courses, teams, clubs, leagues, and groups that create opportunities for members to have fun while preparing their minds and bodies for a lifetime of success.

Life Skills and Friendship Development: Laying a foundation for emotional health and wellness.

• Young Men’s Council Group: Young men and boys ages 8 and over meet twice a week to focus on personal growth, leadership, self-advocacy, and community involvement. Adams

• Boyz to Men Group: This leadership group for teens ages 13 to 17 is a dynamic program designed to empower young men through personal growth, mentorship, and community engagement. This group provides a supportive environment where participants can develop essential leadership skills, build confidence, and connect with peers. Gantt

• Young Women Magic: A supportive and inspiring community that puts young women on the path to reach their full potential and fulfilling futures. This program focuses on personal growth, self-confidence, and leadership skills to foster a sense of belonging and sisterhood. Gantt

• Men of Impact: A mentor-based program for youth ages 9 and over that encourages personal growth and social cohesion through community discussions and event planning. Adult men from the community serve as “Men of Impact” who engage youth in thoughtful dialogue, offer guidance through challenges, and foster positive relationship building. Youth drive their own positive progress by developing and organizing community-focused special events. Ryan

• Boy’s Group: Pre-teen and early teen boys, ages 10 to 14, approach the threshold of manhood in a spirit of fellowship, fun and service under the supportive guidance of caring mentors. A framework of engaging, on-site activities and field trips forms a safe space for youth to discuss growing pains while learning and developing the character traits of successful men. Lightfoot

Nature and Outdoor Activities: Discover yourself through the world you live in.

• Earth Explorers: Do you love exploring the outdoors and learning about nature and the planet? Join Earth Explorers this winter for nature-based learning, science crafts and activities, indoor rock climbing, playing in the snow, and more! Ages 6 to 12. Ryan, Carter, Edgerton, Jackson, Lightfoot

Open Sports and Play: Sharpen the game through Open Rec: Enjoy the R-Centers’ world-class athletic facilities during unstructured hours.

• Open Basketball: Come shoot some hoops or play pickup games of basketball. Carter

• Football: Teams will play a fast-paced fun and exciting game of football. Jackson

Teams, leagues, and organized play: Practice resilience through healthy competition.

• Youth Sports: Designed to promote physical fitness, teamwork, and personal development through a variety of sports. Our program caters to young athletes of all skill levels, providing a supportive environment where they can learn, compete, and have fun. Gantt

• Youth Sports Night: Your opportunity to play some of the classic team sports, including volleyball, soccer, floor hockey, and wiffle ball. Carter

• Soccer with Eski: Enjoy fun and competitive soccer games.  Carter

• Biddy Basketball: Younger players have fun and learn the fundamentals of basketball based on an international instruction technique. Adams, Jackson

• Flag Football: Sharpen your skills with basic and intermediate flag football. Ave. D

• Volleyball: Fun and competitive volleyball games for youth. Ave. D

Coaching and Training: Striving for excellence in favorite sports.

• Girls Basketball with Rec on the Move: Learn new skills, healthier lifestyles, teamwork and how to improve your overall mental and physical strength. Ryan

• Girls Roc Sports Program: Girls explore different sports, develop new skills, and make lasting friendships in a supportive and encouraging environment. Adams

• Junior Basketball Clinics: Focus on the fundamental skills, teamwork, and the joy of the game. Adams

• Girls Volleyball Clinics: Join us for volleyball to  improve your skills in a fun and supportive setting.  Experienced coaches will help you with techniques, game strategy and teamwork! Douglass

• Girls Softball Clinics: Join us for these exciting, skill building softball clinics! Under the guidance of experienced coaches, participants will work on fundamental softball skills, including hitting, fielding, pitching and base running. The clinic will also focus on teamwork, strategy and sportsmanship, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience. Douglass

• Boys Baseball Clinics: Join us for these exciting, skill-building baseball clinics! Under the guidance of experienced coaches, participants will work on fundamental baseball skills, including hitting, fielding, pitching and base running. The clinic will also focus on teamwork, strategy and sportsmanship, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience. Ave. D

• Sports Conditioning: Build positive communication and health in this leadership group for both boys and girls. Cauldwell

• A League of Our Own: Players will learn new skills, healthier lifestyles, teamwork and improve overall mental and physical strength. Lightfoot

• Dr. Kamae Martial Arts: Discover a dynamic fusion of discipline, agility and empowerment. Learn self-defense, self-confidence, focus, and respect. Join us on a journey where strength meets spirit, and every movement is a step towards greatness.  Adams

• Jackson Boxing Program (Youth): Ages 12 and under. Box your way to the physical strength, independence, and self-discipline that this sport can offer. Jackson

Educational Enrichment: Preparing for a lifetime of learning.

• Homework Help: Get help with homework. Ryan, Jackson

• Flocabulary: Cultivate literacy across the curriculum with standards-aligned, video-based lessons and activities that leverage the power of hip-hop, storytelling, and emotional connections. Lightfoot

Cooking and Nutrition: Learn to prepare delicious and healthy meals for home.

• Top Chef: Discover hands-on demonstrations of culinary arts to explore the career field and enjoyment of preparing food. Gantt

• R-Chef Club: Learn the skills needed to make quick and simple meals while having fun. Carter

• Cheffing It Up: Learn basic cooking skills for beginners. Hope

• Culinary Quest: Learn the skills needed to make quick and simple meals while having fun. Ave. D

Arts and Creativity: Expand the mind with creativity.

• Anime Club: Learn how to draw anime, a style of animation originating in Japan. Jackson

• Paint and Bake Ceramics: Learn the art of ceramics to build, bake, and paint your own creations. Edgerton

• Color Me Creative: Enjoy paper and canvas art. Where will your creativity lead? Edgerton

• Modern Drumming: Find your rhythm and express your creativity while learning contemporary drumming techniques. Ave. D

• ROCmusic Rhythm: Foster an early love of music and artistic expression by learning about rhythm section instruments including keyboard, bass guitar, drum set, and studio production. Gantt

Dance Classes and Teams: Making friends to favorite rhythms and beats.

• Cadet: Give flag dance a whirl to develop leadership skills, improve fitness and strength, and cultivate a new passion. Jackson

• Roc Royals Step & Dance: Strengthen self-esteem and team building skills while having fun through the art of step and dance. Gantt

• Grupo Cultural Latinos Dance: Learn modern and historical dances from the rich cultural heritage of Latin America. Gantt

• Wii Dance: Get ready to move, groove, and bust a move in the most exciting Wii Dance Class! Whether you are a seasoned dancer or have two left feet, this class gets you on the dance floor with upbeat tunes, flashy moves, and contagious energy. It is not just a workout – it is a party on your feet! Perfect for all ages, so bring your best moves and let’s dance. Edgerton

• Hip-Hop/Freestyle Dance: Feel your movements and develop your own style in hip-hop/freestyle dance session. Ave. D

• Dance: Learn different styles of dance and have fun, improve fitness, build confidence and express yourself. Areas of focus will include free style, teamwork and choreography. Lightfoot