ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Howard County Executive Calvin Ball today announced more than 30 youth programming opportunities for young people in Howard County of all ages. Available in every part of the county, these transformational and free programs are supported by Howard County’s Youth Engagement Programming grant, also known as the YEP! program. To date, Ball has provided more than $1 million to support YEP! programs. More information on YEP! programs and how to register can be found here.
These transformative YEP! programs will provide more opportunities for our young people to recreate, engage, and grow with each other in safe, supported, and nurturing environments. I remain committed to working alongside our young people to create a safe community where everyone is welcomed, supported, and encouraged to become their best self.
The YEP! programs will be offered by 30 nonprofit organizations that received funding through the YEP! grant. These programs are available to young adults and students who attend elementary, middle, and high schools in Howard County. Programs will cover a variety of activities and engagement opportunities, including mentorship, tutoring, sports programs, environmental education, technology workshops, entrepreneurship, leadership development, and more.
Two YEP! programs that kicked off during the summer are being hosted by Howard Community College. These include the HCC Youth Track and Field program and the HCC Youth esports program, which are targeted to serve youth in middle and high school. Both programs will engage young people in activities with their peers and are focused on wellness, collaboration, and teamwork.
We are happy to host two YEP! programs at Howard Community College and engage our local youth in activities that promote social and emotional learning, wellness, partnerships, and teamwork. We are excited for the opportunity to have middle and high school students engage with our students and staff. It is a wonderful way for all to learn and grow together to meet our students where they dream.
YEP! programs will be offered for young people across all age ranges and at locations throughout Howard County, including in Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Laurel, Clarksville, and Western Howard County. Programs available through the YEP! initiative will be offered during the summer and during after-school hours through the 2023-2024 school year.
To find more information on YEP! programs and sign up to participate, please visit the YEP! website.