Park and Play: More Than a Summer Program

Built by Community, for Community How Meals, Mentors, and Moments Are Shaping Brighter Summers for Local Kids

"You don’t always remember the average days. But you remember the days that feel like something."

That’s how Tamara, Youth Director at the YMCA of Grays Harbor, described Park and Play. For hundreds of kids in our community, those summer days aren’t just fun—they’re formative. They’re filled with meals, mentors, and memories that last.

Every summer, thanks to a partnership among the YMCA of Grays Harbor, the City of Aberdeen, local school districts, and support from United Way Grays Harbor, five park sites transform into welcoming hubs for local children. Park and Play offers more than a meal—it provides mentorship, learning, and joy.

What Park and Play Offers

From June through August, children can count on:

• Nutritious lunches and snacks

• Games, crafts, and enrichment

• Mentorship from youth workers

• Special events like face painting, book giveaways, and foam parties
  

When funding allows, the program expands into Elma, Ocean Shores, and Pacific Beach—bringing the same support to rural families.

A Story That Stays With You

One summer, a young girl learning English returned to her park site every day. A mentor named Caleb used UNO cards and park objects to help her practice. By the end of the summer, they were holding conversations.

“Fifty days. Fifty touches. That’s what makes a difference.”

Park and Play is built on those moments, where trust grows, and kids feel seen.

A Celebration of Community

The program kicks off with a family event at Finch Park: foam machines, free bikes, face painting, and playtime with local firefighters and police. It’s summer joy—with a purpose.

“They’ll remember that foam machine forever—and the people who were there with them.”

Why United Way Shows Up

When school is out, many kids lose more than a routine. They lose daily meals, adult guidance, and a place to feel safe. That’s why United Way Grays Harbor shows up—for the kids who need more than a meal. We fund Park and Play because it keeps kids nourished, seen, and supported throughout the entire summer.

“We’d love to offer this in every city,” shared YMCA CEO Franzine Potts. “If we have the support, we’ll make it happen.”

Where to Find Park & Play

From June 16 to August 22, Monday through Friday, Park & Play brings food, fun, and enrichment to kids at five park sites:

Program Hours: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Lunch Served: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Who Can Attend: All youth ages 0–18

📍 Locations:

• Garley Park

• Peterson Playfield

• Finch Playfield

• North Aberdeen Playfield

• Cosi Lions Park  📌 Note: No program or lunch on June 19, July 3, or July 4.

Why United Way Grays Harbor Supports Park and Play

At United Way Grays Harbor, we fund more than programs—we fund possibility.

Park and Play embodies our mission: building a resilient community where everyone, especially our youngest neighbors, can thrive. With your support, we help the YMCA bring connection, consistency, and care to kids all summer long.

This is how we build a resilient Grays Harbor. Every kid needs a safe place to grow. This is how we show up. We are better together. United is the Way.