INDIANAPOLIS — It's back. The City of Indianapolis kicks off its Safe Summer program this Friday, July 10 through August 14. The second-year program is a collaboration with community partners and Indy Parks to fund safe and productive activities for youth ages 13 and older.
“This year has been uniquely challenging for our young people,” said Mayor Joe Hogsett. “The Safe Summer initiative provides them with opportunities to stay active in safe, responsible ways. I am proud of our Violence Reduction Team and community partners who collaborate to make a difference for these youths.”
Safe Summer will provide free safe spaces, food, and activities for youth, including:
- Basketball
- Games of pool and foosball
- Video and board games
- Conflict resolution workshops
- Personal hygiene trainings
- Movie nights
- Guest speakers
- End of summer dance
- Pool days
- And more
Safe Summer will take place weekly at the following Indy Parks facilities on Friday nights from 7 to 10 p.m.:
- Bethel Park
- CAFÉ (Community Alliance of the Far Eastside)
- Municipal Gardens
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing and wearing masks will be required at all Safe Summer locations.
Safe Summer also includes targeted neighborhood walks on Saturday nights in areas like Castleton and Downtown that see increased youth activity. Community members interested in volunteering with Safe Summer can email OPHS@indy.gov
“This program provides a safe space for Indianapolis teens and shows them we care about their futures,” said Shonna Majors, director of community violence reduction. “We look forward to showing our youth constructive, valuable options outside of crime and violence.”
