Mayor Gloria Highlights $75 Million Investment in Child and Youth Programs

SAN DIEGO – As part of a citywide commitment to supporting San Diego's youth, Mayor Todd Gloria is highlighting the programs and services available to children and teens throughout the year. The City's Fiscal Year 2027 budget protects recreation center and library hours and provides additional funding for youth drop-in centers, reinforcing the City's investment in opportunities for young people across every neighborhood. 

“The City of San Diego continues to make significant investments in young people and programs that support them,” said Mayor Todd Gloria. “Across San Diego, we’re investing more than $75 million in youth services — safe places for kids and teens to learn, play, explore their interests, and prepare for their future. Whether it's joining a sports league, learning to swim, getting help with homework, exploring nature or gaining job experience, we want every family to know there are opportunities available in every part of our city.” 

This comprehensive list of programs represents more than $75 million in annual City and grant funding that supports San Diego’s youth. Programs include after-school homework help at City libraries, police and fire cadet training, gang intervention, dance and sports programs, nature-based outdoor activities and much more. 

Last month, Mayor Gloria joined the San Diego Parks Foundation to announce the return of Parks After Dark, a series of free, outdoor events full of activities for the entire family. During the summer program, every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, from 5 to 8 p.m., Parks After Dark provides families in San Diego communities with free outdoor music, theater, movies, arts and crafts, games, sports clinics, tournaments, resources from community-based organizations, and free food for children. 

Additional youth summer programs include the San Diego Public Library’s Summer Reading Program available citywide, and the Summer Enrichment Program at seven City libraries. Free lunches and produce for families are also available at several library, recreation center and park locations throughout the summer. 

As part of the City’s Employ & Empower internship program, which is funded through a Youth Service Corps state grant, the City’s Human Resources Department is hosting a Summer City Civics program for young people ages 16 to 30. Summer City Civics offers workshops, team challenges and hands-on learning experiences that build skills for college and future careers. 

Year-round programs offered by the City include: 

• 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten 

• Nature Play at Tecolote Nature Center 

• Access 4 All 

• Pathway to Career 

• Fire Cadet Program 

• Civic Dance Arts 

• Swimming lessons and pools 

• Skate parks 

• Recreation center sports and activities 

• SDPD Police Leading Adventures for Youth (PLAY) 

• STAR/PAL 

• Safetynet 

• Gang Resistance Education and Awareness Training 

• Peacemaker Project 

• Activities for people with disabilities 

For a full overview of child and youth programs, visit the City’s Youth Programs webpage.