Summer at YES
Summer at YES: Empowering Youth Through Connection, Creativity, and Support
Summer is a special time at Youth Eastside Services (YES). It offers an opportunity to offer engaging, skill-building programs while encouraging connection, creativity, and well-being. This year, our summer lineup is packed with exciting and supportive programs for youth of all ages across the Eastside.
Here’s a look at what we’re offering:
Agency-Based Programs
First Approach Skills Training (FAST)
College students home for the summer or youth who need short-term support will benefit from our First Approach Skills Training (FAST) program. FAST is a brief, evidence-based counseling service perfect for tackling minor challenges like anxiety, stress, or adjustment. Whether you’re looking to maintain mental health during summer or reset before heading back to school, our skilled counselors are here to help.
Summer Sober Activity Camp
If you or a youth you know is navigating sobriety from substance use, our Summer Sober Activity Camp is a great way to stay active and engaged in a supportive, substance-free setting. To sign up for activities, please email ann.chen@youtheastsideservices.org.
Here’s the super fun activity schedule:
Week 1 (7/15) – Ceramic Painting & Board Game Day
Week 2 (7/23) – Laser Tag
Week 3 (7/29) – Museum Outing (Museum of Illusion or MoPOP)
Week 4 (8/6) – Go Karting
Week 5 (8/12) – Popping or K-Pop Dance & Cupcake Decorating or Make Your Own Notebook
Week 6 (8/20) – End-of-Summer BBQ & Spikeball
Chinese New Immigrant Teens: Bridging Culture Support Group will run August 25–29, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., creating a safe space to explore cultural identity, build new friendships, and ease the transition into the new school year. Reach out to Monica.Wang@youtheastsideservices.org if you’re interested in joining.
School-Based Programs
Lake Washington Middle School Summer Camp
We’re thrilled to be hosting our summer camp once again at Lake Washington Middle School!
This two-week camp provides a safe and supportive environment for middle school youth (6th–8th grade) currently enrolled in the Lake Washington School District.
Activities range from arts and team-building to outdoor recreation and games, all under the caring supervision of YES counselors and volunteers. If you’d like to refer a youth or help with transportation options, please get in touch with LWSD23summercamp@youtheastsideservices.org.
Community-Based Programs
“La Mariposa” Latina Girls Summer Group
Led by Banessa and Judith, “La Mariposa” is a 7-week personal empowerment group celebrating Latina cultural identity and promoting positive relationships, problem-solving, and leadership skills.
Group meets mid-July through August (Mondays & Wednesdays) at YES and Redmond Teen Center.
The camp features bilingual, hands-on activities and excursions and is a unique opportunity for Latina youth (ages 12–15) to grow and connect.
Guys Summer Group
Facilitated by Gianni, this summer group empowers male-identifying youth to explore their community and identity through skill-building and field trips.
Tuesdays and Thursdays in August will feature visits to local parks, city offices, youth centers, and other community spaces to learn about engagement and leadership. Open to male and BIPOC youth.
Brazilian Student Club Summer Leadership
Our Brazilian Student Club will offer leadership and community-building opportunities to Brazilian youth on Wednesdays in August. Youth will plan a summer gathering to promote cohesiveness, identity, and pro-social fun in English to support language practice.
A Summer of Connection and Growth
Whether through creative arts, skill-building, or peer support, these programs are designed to help youth explore who they are, build friendships, and gain new tools for navigating life’s challenges, all in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Have questions or want to make a referral? Reach out to YES at 425-747-4937 to learn more.
Let’s make this summer a memorable one for youth across our community!
Summer Programs like these are only made possible through the generosity of supporters like you. Please consider making a gift today to continue providing children, youth, and families with the services and programs that support their mental health and recovery.
Thanks to donations like yours, no family is turned away because they can’t afford to pay for services.
