Teen Programs

FRESH Crew Volunteer Days 

Join bi-weekly stewardship days where teens like you can make a difference in our local parks and natural areas. FRESH Crew is a great opportunity for teens to get involved in the community, gain new skills, and earn professional references! (For teens in grades 6-12) No previous experience is required. 

Adult guardians must complete this Volunteer Waiver and email it to Connor Ross (or, if day of, print it & bring to the site) before teens can be allowed to participate.

FRESH Crew for grades 6 - 12 is currently taking place on Saturdays: 2pm-4pm.

    For more information, contact Connor Ross at cjross@urbanaparks.org or 217-384-4062.

    Wondering what discoveries the Crew is making in our local natural areas? Check out the FRESH Crew iNaturalist project here!

    Enter your email to get information about upcoming FRESH Crew events!
    *then click the SUBSCRIBE button below

    Teen Hangout Zone - FREE

    Get ready for an epic time at Urbana Park District's Teen Hangout Zones–exclusively for teens! Whether you're into gaming, reading, art, or just chilling with friends, we've got you covered. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, Playstation 5 gaming, art supplies, board games, yard games and more. Plus, there are free snacks and refreshments! (For teens in grades 6-12)

    Select Fridays, 3:30-6 p.m., at the Phillips Recreation Center:

    • January 23
    • February 27
    • March 27
    • April 24

    Don't miss out—call the Phillips Recreation Center at 217-367-1544 or email kmbickers@urbanaparks.org for all of the info! 

    Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Program

    Counselors-in-Training (CITs) experience camp from the leader's point of view and bring their own energy and talents to the Urbana Park District's Day Camps. Participate in and lead daily camp activities while assisting counselors and campers with Summer Day Camp. CITs will participate in the program 15-20 hours per week, three days a week (Monday-Friday, June 3 – July 31, 2026, from 8:15am-3pm). Throughout the summer, CITs will set personal goals for success, attend weekly CIT meetings and reflect on experiences while growing personally and professionally. Join the Urbana Park District team and gain experience and leadership skills that prepare you for future summer and part-time jobs.

    CITs must be between the ages of 13-15 years and have completed 7th grade. For more information, contact Cathy Schneider.

    Find the PDF 2026 CIT Application here - deadline March 31, 2026

    Find the Online Form 2026 CIT Application here - deadline March 31, 2026

    View and register for teen programs here:

    FRESH Crew Teen Volunteer Days

    Join FRESH Crew Teen Volunteer Days to make a positive impact on local parks and natural areas. No registration is required, but a waiver must be completed to participate. It’s a great way to earn service hours and gain unique experiences! Contact Connor Ross at cjross@urbanaparks.org or 217-384-4062 for more information.

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    Urbana Park District Parks
    Age: +
    Fees
    Sat: Sep. 05 - Dec. 05
    2:00 pm: 2h
    View

    FREE! Teen Artist Retreat!

    Calling all teens! Join Krannert Art Museum for a free teen artist’s retreat designed to flex your creative muscles with guided artmaking, gallery activities, a nature walk, and a chance to create and take home your own works of art. Lunch and snacks are provided.

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    Anita Purves Nature Center
    Age: 12 - 18
    Fees
    Sat: Oct. 03
    10:00 am: 5h
    View

    Safe Sitter Life Skills and Childcare Training Course

    For ages 11-14 (6-8 grade) Course content includes: Safety Skills; indoor, outdoor, online, and personal safety. Child Care Skills; child development, childcare routines, behavior management. First Aid and Rescue Skills; injury prevention, injury management and choking rescue. Life and Business Skills; screening jobs, setting fees, and greeting employers. Please bring your own lunch.

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    Phillips Recreation Center
    Age: 11 - 15
    Fees
    $20 (R) $30 (NR)
    Sat: Nov. 07
    9:30 am: 6h
    View

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