Safe Places to Play is a program run by our Camden Y to provide fun, structured and FREE activities at Cornelius Martin, Dudley Grange, and Alberta Woods Parks. The safe places to play program is funded by Saint Joseph’s Carpenter Society and Camden Lutheran Housing Inc.. Our trained counselors keep youth engaged, safe and active throughout the summer with structured activities and sports.

Program Details

Safe Places to Play helps ensure kids in the Camden area have places where they can feel safe while enjoying summer and making new friends. Our staff provide participants with constructive ways to spend their time each day. Kids can learn about new sports, games, practice a craft, or connect with other kids from their neighborhood.

Info for summer 2024 coming soon!

How to get involved!

Any child from Pre-K to the age of 18 is welcome to join us at one of our Safe Places to Play Locations. The Y will provide materials and athletic gear for all the activities we lead. Hours of summer 2024 locations will be available soon.

There is no cost to participate and no registration required. Volunteers are welcome to join are staff in providing activities and interaction with youth participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions that are not answered here? Reach out to our Safe Places to Play program coordinator, Ivy Dingle for more info.

Five days a week, Monday - Friday from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM beginning June 26th through Labor Day Weekend.

Structured Play, Free Play, Sports Equipment, Arts & Crafts, and more.

Yes, we have partnered with the Food Bank of New Jersey to provide lunch and afternoon snacks to youth participants in the Safe Places to Play program.

Unfortunately, youth can only eat the food provided in the area in which the Safe Places to Play program is held.

No, Safe Places to Play is completely voluntary participation.

Ages Pre-K to 18 years old are welcome to participate.

Staff will be dressed in branded YMCA shirts.

No, your children are free to come when they see fit. If they want to be there when staff is present the hours are from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

There are no trips, just Y staff presence in the parks.

Yes, youth will have the opportunity to sign out equipment, but must return the items before exiting the park or area.

Safe Places is not a camp, it is a voluntary participation program.