Free and Low-Cost Youth Programs in Colorado

Budget tight? Struggling to figure out how to keep your kids entertained, educated, and engaged (and ideally, off their phones and social media apps all summer)? Free youth programs in Colorado may be able to help.

Affordability is a key attribute of all these programs, but you don’t have to sacrifice quality for the sake of your wallet. These low-income family youth resources can prepare your kids with the skills they’ll use for life – all while having a blast.

At Young Americans Center for Financial Education, we offer a fantastic selection of programs that merge learning with fun. We know raising kids can be pricey, and that finding free or low-cost family youth resources is a must.

From managing their own town as miniature mayors to exploring global economics, our programs provide kids and teens with the opportunity to develop financial practical skills and grow their creativity.

Whether your child dreams of becoming the next top entrepreneur or community changemaker or simply wants to learn more about money management, Colorado has something waiting for you with these awesome online and in-person youth development programs for the summer.

What Are Youth Programs?

The term “youth programs” can be applied to all kinds of different enrichment and outreach programs for young people (from elementary school all the way up to high school-age and young adults).

Some programs, like those run by the YMCA, focus on youth sports, wellness, and general childcare. Others, like the ones we offer at Young Americans, are more about personal enrichment and career exploration.

No matter what kinds of programs you choose, these are a great way to help your child fill their free time, make new friends, and learn something new in the process.

Why Youth Programs Matter

Let’s face it, finding affordable and enriching activities for kids isn’t always easy. But youth programs like the ones we offer serve as a much-needed resource for families trying to provide opportunities for their children without stretching their budgets thin.

Research states that extracurricular activities can enhance children’s academic performance and teamwork skills. According to the Afterschool Alliance, 82% of parents believe afterschool programs provide kids with opportunities to learn life skills they otherwise wouldn’t. Not to mention the social interactions!

And the benefits don’t end there. Programs geared toward financial literacy or entrepreneurship can shape better decision-making, improve confidence, and even spark lifelong passions.

Our Free and Low-Cost Youth Programs at Young Americans Center

Curious about what these low-income family youth resources and programs look like? At Young Americans Center, we’ve designed our programs to feel less like “learning” and more like fun adventures with a purpose. Here’s a quick look at what we offer:

Young AmeriTowne

Imagine your child becoming the ‘mayor’ of their own miniature town. That’s the idea behind Young AmeriTowne, where students manage an entire community and take on roles like managers, accountants, and media specialists. By running the town’s economy for a day, they’ll learn money management, decision-making, and teamwork in a dynamic and interactive way.

YouthBiz Workshops

Have a budding entrepreneur at home? YouthBiz Workshops teach kids how to create a business plan, pitch ideas, and hone their entrepreneurial skills.

According to Junior Achievement USA, 60% of teens aspire to own a business someday. Start nurturing that dream now with these hands-on classes that make entrepreneurship attainable and fun.

International Towne

Got a globetrotter on your hands? Enter International Towne, a one-of-a-kind program where kids simulate managing the global economy. They’ll explore different cultures, learn currency exchange, sharpen diplomacy, and understand international trade. This program is perfect for teens interested in business or international studies.

Money Matters

Money Matters brings personal finance to life for students—both in classrooms and online! These hands-on workshops and full curricula can be led by an expert staff or taught by teachers using our ready-to-go materials, perfect for groups of 10–30.

Plus, the FREE, fast-paced virtual classes let kids dive into fun games and activities while learning the value of money—and in select sessions, they can even earn a $10 savings certificate to start their own bank account!

Girl Scout Classes

Through our partnership with Girl Scouts of Colorado, we’ve designed in-person badge classes that teach money management, budgeting, philanthropy, and more. These interactive lessons are tailored for Girl Scouts of various levels, making the experience engaging and impactful. Plus, each participant receives class materials and their official badge in the mail!

Taught entirely online, these flexible classes cost around $15 and include all materials and badges.

Summer Camps

Not all camp programs need to be year-round. When school’s out, summer camps at Young Americans Center step in. These week-long camps focus on financial education, entrepreneurship, and leadership skills through dynamic, hands-on activities.

Open to campers entering grades 3–8, they combine learning with outdoor fun. Camps are held at two convenient Colorado locations (Denver and Belmar), with financial assistance available.  If you’re looking for something that will give your kids the authentic “camp experience” while also providing ample enrichment, this is the one to sign up for.

How to Get Started

Getting involved is simple. Visit our website to browse our program offerings and choose the ones that match your child’s goals and interests.

Registration is straightforward through our dashboard, and we offer various locations across Colorado (including Denver and Belmar) to make it easy for every family.

Not ready to commit yet? No problem! Join our mailing list to stay updated on new workshops, seasonal camps, and special events.

And remember, these programs are designed with flexibility in mind to fit your family’s busy schedule.

Your Child’s Journey Starts Here

This is your chance to provide your kids with opportunities they’ll carry into adulthood. From valuable life skills to unforgettable memories, our free and low-cost programs make it all possible without the financial burden.

Let’s work together to empower the next generation to dream big, achieve more, and make a lasting difference.

Take Charge today. Sign up for a program at the Young Americans Center for Financial Education and empower your child to dream big, learn more, and achieve their full potential.