THRIVE Middle School Program

ELEVATE YOUR AFTER SCHOOL EXPERIENCE

We bring mentors, professionals, and creatives right to you for hands-on activities chosen by students. From STEM and sports to arts, this program supports your academics, builds leadership, and creates a space where you belong and can grow.

Details:

• Location: Thurgood Marshall Middle School
• Free for all middle school students
• Responsible for transportation
• Weekdays from 12-4pm
• Free snacks are provided

Week 1: Culinary Skills | June 29-July 2

A 4-day exploration into eating healthfully and sustainably, while learning practical cooking skills such as safe food handling and how to read a recipe. This week will feature a field trip to the Olympia Farmers Market and a local beach for a lesson on shellfish harvesting. Please note this is a 4-day week.

Week 2: Active Lifestyles | July 6-10

An active lifestyle can mean more than just committing to a sport or hitting the gym regularly–it’s an opportunity to integrate the joy of movement into your everyday life. Participants will start off each day with a gentle warmup and get the opportunity to play, move, and dance in multiple ways.

Week 3: Performing Arts | July 13-17

Take center stage during Performing Arts Week! Students will participate in dance workshops, singing, and songwriting activities while developing their creative talents and working together toward a special end of week performance.

Week 4: Outdoor and First Aid Skills | July 20-24

Olympia has numerous opportunities for getting out into the front- or backcountry. Let’s do it safely!

Week 5: Visual Arts | July 27-31

Students will express their creativity through a variety of artistic projects while exploring different art forms and techniques.

Week 6a: Leadership | August 3-7

Leadership Week is designed to help students build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and discover their leadership potential. Through team building activities, hands on projects, and community focused experiences, participants will learn how to lead, collaborate, and make a positive impact.

Week 6b: Teens Biking to Destinations | August 3-6

In partnership with Intercity Transit’s Walk N Roll program, learn bicycle safety, maintenance, riding skills, and explore the community through guided rides and biking activities. At the end of the week, participants receive their own bicycle and safety gear to take home. Please note, this is a 4-day week and space is extremely limited. Priority will be given to students who do not already own functional bicycles.

Questions? Email us! MiddleSchoolProgram@ssymca.net

VOLUNTEER TO LEAD A WORKSHOP

Want to make a difference in a middle schooler’s life?

Join us and become a volunteer mentor and share your skills, stories, and passion through hands-on workshops! Whether you’re in STEM, arts, sports, business, or any other field, your experience can inspire the next generation. Our program depends on awesome people like you to help students explore new careers and build confidence.

LEAD A WORKSHOP/FIELD TRIP