Benefits of SOS

Children’s Discovery Museum offers a nationally-recognized summer day camp for youth entering Grades 7–10.

Responding to the needs of young teens too old for the traditional day camp, but too young for full-time employment, Summer of Service (SOS) is a unique and innovative summer program where youth can have fun, make friends, meet new challenges, and make a difference in the community.

Changing Lives Since 2001

SOS is an ongoing part of many young lives.Service in our local community has a deep impact on many participants, who express the desire to continue working to benefit their community. Many SOS graduates have developed an enduring bond with the Museum, and continue on as exhibit and program specialists, Team Teal volunteer staff, and SOS facilitators.

Recognizing an outstanding opportunity for youth, SOS won the prestigious Promising Practices Award from the Association of Children’s Museums.

Testimonials

 Parents Say:

Her leadership skills are improving under the guidance/mentorship of outstanding team leaders. Her involvement with different community agencies helps her see the needs of the community and instills compassion for others that she may not have been aware of without SOS.   

SOS is a wonderful idea.This is my daughter’s second year. The benefits of my daughter’s involvement in SOS is being with kids her age and working together to improve and give back to the community. It gives her an idea of what’s out there while under supervision. And, she’s seeing what the community is like on her own terms without the input of her parents. In addition, she’s getting community service credit.

 Participants Say:

SOS made a huge and positive difference with me. I discovered my capabilities and learned to be social here, more so than I would ever learn at school. SOS gave me confidence I probably would never have gotten without it.

SOS has taught me how to care for others in need of help. Also, it has helped me care more for my community and my family. Being in the SOS program has helped me realize how important it is to give back to your community.

Read more about the program. Evaluation Report