How we help empower youth

We take a holistic approach by providing programs with life-long impact such as character-building programs, summer camp opportunities, sports activities, education, after-school tutoring, mentorship and more. At the core of all that we do for youth, fighting for them is synonymous with sharing God's love and grace.

We invite you to explore our opportunities for youth below:

Character Building

One group of our resources that we provide is Character Building. This group will cover items from Adventure Corps (Rangers & Explorers), Girl Guards, Moonbeams, Sunbeams. You can click on any item below to be directed to the following resources you are searching for.

ADVENTURE CORPS

The Salvation Army Adventure Corps is a Christian education program designed for boys Grades 1-12. It is divided into two sections: Explorers for boys in grades 1-5 and Rangers for boys in Grades 6-12. Each section takes members through a series of achievement awards and levels, helping boys to develop their individuality and potential.

GIRL GUARDS

Guarding opens the door to adventure. As a Girl Guard, you will find many exciting new experiences awaiting you. With each experience you will discover things about yourself and the world God has created. Girl Guards is open to all girls in grades 6-12.

You will belong to a large family with thousands of members in every part of the United States and in many other the countries where The Salvation Army is located. Girl Guards is one of many youth groups sponsored by your local Salvation Army corps. Girl Guard meetings may be held at the corps center, at community buildings, or schools.

SUNBEAMS

The Guarding Program is sponsored by The Salvation Army. It includes girls in grades 1 through 12, divided into two groups: Sunbeams (grades 1-5) and Girl Guards (grades 6-12).

If you do not have a Sunbeam program in your local Salvation Army, you may join Girl Guards in grade 5. If you do not have a Girl Guard program, you may remain a Sunbeam through grade 6.

All Sunbeams are members of the Guarding Program. Any girl may join the program.

The Salvation Army Outdoors Ministries

The Salvation Army Outdoors initiative comes alive through existing Character Building, Community Center, Day Camp, and Summer Camp programs. Leaders are always looking for new ideas, experiences, and materials that their youth will love. Science-based, conservation educational curricula like Growing Up Wild and Project Learning Tree provide hundreds of tried and tested ideas and activities that engage youth.

Equipping Leaders

New and seasoned leaders need to be encouraged and equipped. The Salvation Army Outdoors Field Training events are designed to introduce leaders to the initiative while providing practical training and skills, such as: Conservation Educational Curricula, Basic Archery Instructor, Camping, Basic Air Rifle Instructor, Pioneering, Geocaching, Fishing, Boating and more.

Engaging Friends

The Salvation Army Outdoors initiative would not be possible without the help of vested partners and friends who share a love for God’s creation. One of our strongest partners has been Safari Club International Foundation. They have come alongside The Salvation Army to help with funding, introductions to prospective partners, and hands-on training.

Other partners include: MI DNR, Pheasants Forever, Council for Environmental Education, US Forestry Service, Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shop and many more. One of our partners said, “If you need help, all you need to do is ask.” If you would like to get involved with The Salvation Army Outdoors, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

The Salvation Army has formed partnerships with The National Archery in Schools Program (NASP®) and Safari Club International (SCIF) to make recreational and competitive archery available to local corps and community centers.

Our Goal

The Salvation Army Outdoors is a new way of thinking about:

• Enhancing and expanding your existing Character Building, Community Center, Day Camp and Summer Camp programs with outdoor adventures.
• Equipping leaders with new skills and tools.
• Engaging friends to come alongside us to provide support, training, and funds for The Salvation Army Outdoors activities.

More information please call Lt. Audrey or Lt. Shawn Sutter Sr. at 734-282-0930.

Summer Camp

Many children from low-income families rarely experience life outside their immediate neighborhood. That’s why The Salvation Army’s annual summer programs for kids are so important.

Every year, thousands of kids of all ages get a fresh perspective on life as they meet new friends, discover new activities, and get a taste of the great outdoors. As campers learn to swim, play sports, create music, make art, and scout, their trained counselors help them navigate the complicated emotions and struggles often associated with their lives back home.

More information please call Lt. Audrey or Lt. Shawn Sutter, Sr. at 734-282-0930.

Before and After School – Latchkey

Our latchkey program offers before and after school care.  We transport children to and from Wyandotte’s public schools.  We provide snacks, homework help, structured activities and playtime in a safe supervised environment.  For more information or to sign up your child, contact Linda Bercaw – 734-282-0930 ext. 105 or email linda.bercaw@usc.salvationarmy.org.

Summer Day Camp

The Salvation Army Day Camp offers a variety of activities for your child to have an enjoyable summer. We have on site activities as well as field trips. Behind our facility is a park that the kids can play at and on nice days eat lunch out there.

Ages: 5-14 years old

Days/Times: M-F, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. 

Campers will enjoy a variety of activities, including dancing, pottery, swimming and other recreational and social activities. Ages 5-10 years old will go on three field trips per week, while ages 11-14 will attend four field trips per week. Some of these field trips will include bowling, Lincoln Skate Park, MJR in Southgate and more.

Applications can be picked up at The Salvation Army Downriver Corps Community Center, 1258 Biddle Avenue, Wyandotte, MI, 48192. Registration will continue until all summer day camp spots have been filled.

Please contact Linda Bercaw at linda.bercaw@usc.salvationarmy.org or 734-282-0930 Ext. 105 for additional information.

Back to school backpacks and school supplies

In August, we start to take applications for those that need school supplies.  Contact our office at 734-282-0930 for eligibility.

Winter Coats

We supply winter coats for both kids and adults. If you are in need of a winter coat, please stop by our office or by phone at 734-282-0930 to see what we have available