child enrichment programs in Venice, CA

Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.

For the past few years, the Board of Directors of Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles (BGCMLA) and Boys & Girls Clubs of Venice (BGCV) have been collaborating to merge two of LA's most tenured Boys & Girls Clubs. In late 2022, the Boards approved the plan and the organizations merged into one entity. The merger of BGCMLA & BGCV will create a platform to scale impact and enable us to serve more youth and families across Metro Los Angeles. By merging our organizations, we aim to strengthen our infrastructure, increase strategic partnerships, create consistent programming across all sites and better leverage fundraising and advocacy resources.

Oakwood Recreation Center is the perfect place for families to come together and have fun! Located just ¼ mile away from the renowned art and creativity of Venice Beach, Oakwood Recreation Center provides activities that enrich the entire family. From sports to camps, there are plenty of ways to get active and engage with each other. At Oakwood Recreation Center, they strive to bring the community together, and positively impact the lives of each and every family member. With a variety of activities to choose from, there's something for everyone - from basketball and swimming to arts and crafts. No matter what you're looking for, Oakwood Recreation Center is dedicated to providing an environment that encourages family bonding and community building. With its close proximity to Venice Beach, families can explore the area and enjoy all the creativity and art the city has to offer.

Are you looking for an exhilarating activity to enjoy in Southern California? Why not learn to surf with the Venice Beach Surf School! Our team of CPR and First Aid Certified instructors offer year round surfing in Venice, Santa Monica and Mailbu, CA. Plus, all the gear is included in the lesson. Whether you’re a beginner looking to get into the sport, or an experienced surfer looking to hone your skills, we have something for everyone. At Venice Beach Surf School, we offer surf lessons, surf camp, stand up paddle board lessons and surfboard rentals. We have an experienced team of instructors who will show you the basics and help you develop your skills over time. With our gear included, you don’t have to worry about sourcing your own equipment, making it easier to get into the sport. So why not come and join us for some surfing fun!

Are you ready to take on the surf? Whether you’re a novice ready to stand up for the first time or an experienced surfer looking to take your skills to the next level, we can help! Our experienced instructors offer individualized instruction no matter your age or size. Surfing is a great way for both kids and adults to stay active and have fun. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy the waves. So, if you’re ready to learn the basics or take your skills to the next level, we’re here to help! No matter your age or size, our experienced instructors offer tailored instruction to help make your surfing dreams a reality.

Today, P.S. ARTS continues to work to make sure that all California public schools have access to equitable and sustainable arts education. Led by Dr. Paul Cummins and Herb Alpert in 1991, they recognized the need to address the issue of drastic funding cuts to public schools that had left children in poverty and from communities affected by systemic racism without access to arts programs. With the goal of making sure all children have access to arts education, P.S. ARTS is still working to make a difference.

To ignite, expand, and transform the lives of Los Angeles’ low-income youth through photography and film education, and use our participatory storytelling practices to amplify the voices of underrepresented communities around the world.

Penmar Recreation Center is situated on the picturesque Lake St near Walgrove Ave, making it the ideal spot for the perfect family day out. Our special features are designed to ensure everyone has a great time, with a Multipurpose Center, Stage, Gymnasium, Picnic Area, Playground, and six tennis courts, two full courts and one half court basketball courts, plus field space and five baseball diamonds. There are also two picnic tables which are available on a first come, first serve basis by our playground. The recreation building, including restrooms, is open during facility hours only, and is locked at all other times. Groups are asked to remain under 100 people and no jumpers, grills or extra equipment are allowed at the recreation center. Our friendly staff, instructors, and volunteers are on hand to offer a variety of programs and activities for the community. Music classes, day camp programs, sports leagues and programs, dance and fitness activities are all available, so everyone can find something to enjoy. With so much to do, Penmar Recreation Center is the perfect place to spend quality time with your family. Penmar Recreation Center is committed to offering a safe and enjoyable environment for all visitors, so please remember to adhere to the facility regulations. Group size is limited to 100 people, and no jumpers, grills or extra equipment are allowed. We look forward to welcoming you to the recreation center, and hope you have a wonderful time!

Both individual and team concepts are taught in each session. We focus on teaching athletes the essential individual skills and concepts of basketball. Skill specific drills and game applicable challenges are used to give athletes the opportunity to practice the skills and have a better understanding of how and when to use them in a game. At the end of each session, there is a structured scrimmage to put the skills learned into practice. The scrimmages are conducted in small groups to emphasize the skills specifically drilled that session. This program bridges the gap between recreational and competitive play by providing skill development at each level. All athletes have the chance to learn the fundamentals of basketball, practice those skills, and then put them into action. We strive to provide all athletes with the skills needed to succeed in basketball.