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.
This program is free to all youth who wish to participate and is held from 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM on the weekdays starting June 26 through Labor Day Weekend. YMCA Park Counselors will not be in the parks if there is inclement weather.
Safe Places to Play Locations
Alberta Woods Park
Corner of 30th Street & Washington St, Camden, NJ
Cornelius Martin Park
562 N 10th Street, Camden, NJ
Dudley Grange Park
3101 Federal Street, Camden, NJ
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. Staff will be available in the parks each weekday from 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM.
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.
How often is Safe Places to Play in the park?
Five days a week, Monday - Friday from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM beginning June 26th through Labor Day Weekend.
What activities does this program offer?
Structured Play, Free Play, Sports Equipment, Arts & Crafts, and more.
Will food be available?
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.
Can my children receive the food and go?
Unfortunately, youth can only eat the food provided in the area in which the Safe Places to Play program is held.
Do my children have to participate?
No, Safe Places to Play is completely voluntary participation.
How old do my children have to be to participate?
Ages Pre-K to 18 years old are welcome to participate.
How will I know who is staff to regular adults in the park?
Staff will be dressed in branded YMCA shirts.
Do my children have to be at the park by a certain time?
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.
Are there any trips?
There are no trips, just Y staff presence in the parks.
If my child is given equipment, do they have to return it?
Yes, youth will have the opportunity to sign out equipment, but must return the items before exiting the park or area.
Is this a camp?
Safe Places is not a camp, it is a voluntary participation program.