The Hawaii County Department of Parks and Recreation announces its 2024 Summer Fun Programs, which provide recreational opportunities for teens and youth at locations islandwide during summer break.
“We take pride in offering our keiki a safe and enjoyable environment for play and learning during their summer break,” said Mayor Mitch Roth in a press release. “These programs are a lifeline for many working parents who would otherwise face challenges in finding appropriate care for their children. By providing these opportunities, we are not only enhancing the lives of our young ones but also bolstering the overall health of our families and communities.”
The offerings include 16 Summer Fun Programs for elementary-aged children who have completed kindergarten to sixth grade, five teen enrichment programs, and two specialized enrichment programs. All summer programs will be in operation from June 12 to July 19.
“It is so important for keiki and teens to engage in healthy, safe and fun activities during the summer months,” said Maurice Messina, director of Parks and Rec, in the press release. “With our 2024 Summer Fun Programs, we are proud to offer a range of affordable recreational opportunities to support Hawaii County youth and their families.”
The programs include arts and crafts projects, indoor and outdoor games, sports, music, dance, special events and excursions.
Detailed information about program hours, registration dates, cost and age groups can be found online at www.parks.hawaiicounty.gov/facilities-parks/recreation.
For more information, please contact the respective Recreation Division facilities listed in the program flyers.
Locations of Summer Fun district sites, teen programs and specialized programs are listed below.
Hilo District Sites
Kawananakoa Gym
Panaewa Park, Andrews Gym
Hilo Armory
Waiakea Uka Gym
Piihonua Gym
Hamakua District Sites
Papaikou Gym
Honokaa Sports Complex
North &South Kohala District Sites
Spencer “Kalani” Schutte District Park in Waimea
Hisaoka Gym in Kohala
Pu‘u Nui Park in Waikoloa
North and South Kona District Sites
Kekuaokalani Gym in Kailua-Kona
Puna and Ka‘u District Sites
Naalehu Community Center
Robert N. Herkes Gymnasium in Pahala
Keaau Armory
William “Billy” Kenoi Park in Pahoa
Teen Programs
Programs for teenagers will be offered at the Puueo Community Center in Wainaku; Papaikou Gym; Shipman Park in Keaau; Hale Halawai in Kona; and Spencer “Kalani” Schutte District Park in Waimea.
Specialized Programs
The ‘Ike Kai program will engage children, ages 8-12, in lessons about the ocean. This specialized program will be held at the Richardson Ocean Center with three two-week sessions available. The ‘Ike Pono-Hamakua program will host children kindergarten to sixth grade with one three-week session at Kulaimano Community Center and one at Papaaloa Annex.
