Summer at NJCDC: Free Programs, Fun for All Ages, and Community Connections
July 2, 2025
At NJCDC, summer isn’t just a season — it’s a time for community, creativity, and connection. Whether you’re a young person looking to try something new, a parent searching for safe and engaging activities, or a resident hoping to connect with neighbors, we’ve got something for you.
This summer, NJCDC is offering a wide variety of free programs for youth, families, and residents across Paterson through our resident-led classes supported by our Neighborhood Help Center (NHC), our Great Falls Youth Center, and our NJ4S Passaic County Hub. From soccer to sewing, drumming to dance, and writing to wellness, we invite you to make the most of your summer with us!
Resident-Led Summer Classes & Activities Supported by our NHC
Arts & Crafts
Music & Dance
Cooking
Get Active
Great Falls Youth Center: Free Weekly Programming for Youth and Families
Our Great Falls Youth Center (GFYC) is the place to be this summer for youth ages 12–18 and their families. Weekday activities are packed with creativity, sports, and self-expression, while Saturdays offer family-friendly fun for all ages.
Register for these summer programs at bit.ly/njcdcyouth.
Apply to be a Great Falls Youth Center participant at bit.ly/gfycapp.
Weekday Youth Program Schedule
Saturday Family Activities (Open to all ages)
Extended Summer Programs for Youth of All Ages
From kindergarten through high school, our Great Falls Youth Center is buzzing with activity all summer long. With extended programs designed to spark creativity, strengthen academic skills, and inspire curiosity, there’s something for every age group. Whether your child is discovering the arts, preparing for college, or diving into hands-on science and engineering, our Youth Center is the place to grow, learn, and connect this summer.
Read about last summer’s youth programs!
Summer Arts Program (K-5th)
Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (Runs from Monday, June 30 to Friday, July 25)
This free four-week program is for youth entering Kindergarten through 5th Grade. Students will have fun exploring a variety of art forms, including music, dance, and arts & crafts.
While the program is currently at capacity, we encourage you to fill out this registration form to be added to the waiting list.
Bridge to Success (High School Students)
STEAM Summer Program (Middle & High School Students)
NJ4S Passaic County Hub: “End of Summer” Camp
Close out summer with energy and excitement! The NJ4S Passaic County Hub is hosting a weeklong End of Summer Camp for students entering grades 4–8.
Dates: August 25–29, 2025
Location: 101 Oliver Street, Paterson
Cost: Free to attend
Bonus: Students who attend all five days will receive a $50–$100 gift card for school supplies
Final Day: Fun field trip (location to be announced)
Focus: Academic skills, team-building, and getting ready for the new school year
Registration Deadline: July 18 - Register Here
Let’s Make Summer Count
Whether you're learning a new skill, engaging in creative expression, or enjoying family time, NJCDC’s summer programming is here to support and celebrate our community. We hope to see you at one (or more!) of our programs this summer.
Have questions? Reach out to us at info@njcdc.org, or contact the program staff listed in the registration forms.
Let’s make this summer one to remember!