The Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department is offering a variety of new free programs for teens in grades 6-12 (11-18 years old), at the Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center, 600 S. McClelland St.
The following programs are designed to provide safe, engaging recreational opportunities during after-school hours while encouraging creativity, learning, and social connection, the city said.
Teen Trivia Kahoot Style: Every third Tuesday of the month, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Each session features a new theme, including brain teasers, movie quote challenges, and pop culture trivia designed to keep teens engaged and thinking.
Wednesday Workshops: Held 5:30-6:30 p.m., these weekly events feature rotating monthly themes and hands-on activities such as arts and crafts; STEAM projects that promote science, technology, engineering, art, math concepts, and seasonal or holiday-themed programming.
Girls Night In: Heart-2-Heart Hangout will be 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12. The program focuses on friendship, confidence, and self-expression. Participants will enjoy games, snacks, and a creative activity centered on making Valentine’s Day hearts for friends or family members.
Registration is required for all programs, which are offered at no cost.
Youth Center memberships are free for students in grades 6-12. Membership applications are available at the Youth Center and require a parent or guardian signature.
The Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center is open 2:30-7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 2:30-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
For more information, or to register for classes, visit www.cityofsantamaria.org/register. Questions may be directed to the Santa Maria Recreation and Parks office, 805-925-0951 ext. 2260.