Summer Programs Strike a Chord With Teens

The City of Albuquerque’s Department of Youth and Family Services (YFS) is celebrating a summer of connection, growth, and opportunity for thousands of young people citywide. This year’s programs provided safe, engaging resources for children and teens while supporting working families throughout the summer months.

“Every program we offer is designed to meet young people where they are, give them positive outlets, and create pathways for growth and employment,” said Director of YFS, Jess Martinez. “We have teens working as staff, joining Teen Nights, or simply showing up and engaging. We are always working to increase that engagement, because Albuquerque’s future is brighter when our youth are involved.”

Highlights from summer 2025 include:

• 487 employed, with 90% of that being teens in part-time staff positions across programs, building leadership and workforce skills.
• 2,357 children and teens enrolled in summer programs at community centers, Play+, and Inclusion Recreation, including 778 teenagers, or nearly 1/3 of participants.
• 42,815 program visits at community centers throughout the season.
• 181,972 free meals served through the City’s summer lunch program.
• Over 400 teens engaged in teen nights, a dedicated safe-space program for young people.
• Cruzin Into the School Year, giving students from pre-K through 12th grade 2,000 backpacks, 500 haircut vouchers, 1,500 books, and 25,000 assorted school supplies.

Albuquerque teens deserve to feel safe, connected, and ready for the future. Mayor Keller recently launched Teen Connect to show that Albuquerque can prevent problems, expand opportunity, and strengthen the community when we put young people first. By combining safe spaces, enriching activities, mentorship, and career pathways, Teen Connect helps young people grow with confidence while building stronger neighborhoods. The plan includes violence prevention and intervention supports in high schools, safe and supervised programs after school and on weekends, teen nights, holiday and summer camps, arts, STEM, sports, free meals at 31 sites to support nutrition and participation, and inclusive activities at community centers, museums, and parks. Teen Connect — City of Albuquerque

“These numbers reflect more than just attendance – they represent Albuquerque’s commitment to lifting up our young people at every stage,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Whether it’s job opportunities, academic support, or recreation, our programs give kids and teens the tools they need to thrive.”

As summer comes to a close, the City is continuing a robust lineup of before- and after-school programs for the 2025-2026 school year. To date, more than 1,500 students are already registered, with hundreds of spots still open at various community centers. These programs provide academic support, enrichment, recreation, and mentoring opportunities. Upcoming is a full schedule of fall events, classes, and activities across Albuquerque’s community and multigenerational centers, with options for all ages to stay active, connected, and creative.

Families interested in registering for before- and after-school programs or learning more about upcoming events can call 505-767-5800.