Two children painting on a canvas.

TAMPA, FLA. February 5, 2024 – It’s almost Summer Camp season. Over 8,000 participants are expected at the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA and YMCA of the Suncoast with convenient locations throughout the Tampa Bay area. Many camps fill up fast, so we encourage early registration.

Tampa Y Summer Camp registration opens today for the community. The YMCA of the Suncoast will follow suit on February 26 with exclusive member registration in full swing currently. Both Associations offer a wide variety of activities for children and teens from perennial favorites like swimming, sports and arts to unique options like Horse Camp.

Tampa Y camp is geared toward ages 6-15. Participants will experience a fun summer filled with friendships, adventures and phenomenal memories. Dave Boyle, Executive Director, Tampa Y’s Camp Cristina oversees our camps, and shares we are expecting over 5,000 campers this year across our 12 family centers.

“This camp season, while we continue to cherish the timeless traditions that have always defined us, we are excited to introduce a modern twist to these classic elements. Central to our refreshed approach is a renewed emphasis on fostering meaningful connections.”

“Our counselors bring a unique blend of diverse backgrounds and skills, allowing us to offer a personalized experience that caters to the individual needs and interests of every camper. They serve as role models, demonstrating values and attitudes that leave a lasting impact on the campers, shaping not just their summer but their character and life outlook. Importantly, they create a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment where campers feel comfortable to be themselves, fostering respect and appreciation for others.”

At the Suncoast Y, Summer Camp invites youth to be inspired through creative play, sports and more. It is an opportunity for them to stay engaged socially and academically. Each week features a unique theme with fun activities, which encourage kids to try new things, plenty of physical activity and games to keep them active. Campers will have the opportunity to develop friendships and experience a sense of belonging.

“Summer Camp is important for growth. It allows kids to become independent and confident. As well, enables them to socialize and make new friends. We are expecting about 3,000 campers across all four counties, up from about 2,900 last year,” explains Beth Gettig, Vice President of Youth Development, YMCA of the Suncoast.

Camp age range varies from Kindergarten to middle school with a few middle school camps and some Counselor in Training (CIT) programs available for teens.

Register soon. Spots fill up quickly at all locations.


For media queries, please contact:

Kiran Malik-Khan
Senior Communications Director
Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA
Kiran.Malik-Khan@tampaymca.org
813.557.5370

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About the Tampa Y

The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA is a cause-driven 4-star charity, strengthening Hillsborough and East Pasco communities for 130 years, through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Across the Association, 18 facilities engage 160,000+ men, women and children — regardless of age, income or background — to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve our community’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. The Tampa Y has long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change.