How We Empower Youth

Many of the elementary and middle school students who participate in our after-school, sports and music programs would not otherwise have access to such opportunities. These programs provide unique, enriching experiences, offer the benefits of positive mentor relationships and expand the worlds of those enrolled.  

After-school Program
Our after-school program provides comprehensive educational activities, such as homework help, exercise, tutoring, literacy-building, Bible study, organized sports, and arts and crafts as well as nutritious meals to nearly 100 kids in kindergarten through 5th grade during non-school hours. The program operates Monday through Friday from 3-5:30 p.m., with a Teen Night each Friday from 8-10 p.m.

Character Building Programs
Our character building programs offer the opportunity for kids to develop strong communication and leadership skills, grow their minds, and explore God's Word, all while having fun and connecting with their peers. Groups meet Mondays from 6-7 p.m. and include the following: 

• Sunbeams - girls in kindergarten through fifth grade
• Girl Guards - girls in sixth through 12th grades
• Rangers - boys in kindergarten through fifth grade
• Explorers - boys in sixth through 12th grades 

Shield Fine Arts Academy
Music teaches discipline and creativity, encourages self-confidence, and helps to develop interpersonal skills and responsibility. We offer weekly fine arts lessons and classes free of charge, including the use of an instrument, to 70-80 children and adults in brass, guitar, ukulele, percussion, piano, vocal, and music fundamentals. Classes may also include Tuneful Toddlers, dance, and summer music opportunities. The schedule of The Shield Fine Arts Academy changes each semester due to instructor availability, class size and difficulty, and registration numbers. It is best to contact us directly for scheduling. Updated information can also be found via our Facebook Page

Small Fry Basketball
Approximately 300+ kids in third through seventh grades participate in Small Fry Basketball. The program, which has been in operation for nearly 60 years, focuses on building character, along with teaching basketball skills and offering competition under the direction of experienced coaches.

The Small Fry Basketball season Is held November through April on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights from 6-9:30 pm. and Saturdays from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Summer Camps
Summer can be a challenging time for working parents who might not have the financial resources to pay for childcare or expensive camps. We offer a safe environment where kids can thrive during summer vacation while parents are at work. More than 65 students in kindergarten through fifth grade are enrolled in our summer day camps, which offer low-cost, fun and educational recreation, including arts and crafts, sports, swimming and field trips. 

Students in first through 12th grade also enroll in off-site overnight camps each summer where they experience nature, connect with others and learn leadership skills. Themed weeks are also offered throughout the summer, including Music Camp, Teen Camp and Outdoor Camp.