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St. Helens recreation program reports enrollment growth, new partnerships and grant funding
Summary
City recreation staff reported 148 registered programs since February 2025, daily care for about 83 youth, new partnerships with OSU and Skyhawks, and a five-year federal grant worth $230,000 per year for after-school programming.
The St. Helens recreation program told the City Council at its March 5, 2025, work session that program registrations and partnerships have expanded over the past six months, opening more childcare spots and launching several new initiatives.
The recreation program manager said: "Since February 2025 we've had 148 registered programs," and that the city averages about 83 youth in care each day. Staff said a new program scheduled after spring break at Lewis and Clark will serve about 25 to 40 youth and that the program had 203 registrations in the previous 60 days, including 74 in-person registrations.
Staff highlighted partnerships with Grow Greater St. Helens, Columbia County Health Coalition, Oregon State University students for a free STEAM camp, and an Intel-supported STEAM kit program. The city also has a new relationship with Skyhawks to provide sports camps and is partnering with nearby Scappoose organizations for youth leagues and tournaments.
On grants, the manager said the recreation program is operating a 21st Century Community Learning Centers award through the Oregon Department of Education that provides $230,000 per year for five years and requires substantial reporting and program administration. Other funding sources listed included Northwest Parenting and program user fees.
Recreation staff said the grant has supported hiring high school students for program roles; the presenter reported four high school employees and two high school volunteers currently working with city programs and training in grant reporting.
Council members praised the program's role in addressing local childcare and youth activity gaps. The manager said staff are evaluating before-school care options, facility rentals to expand revenue, and volunteer recruitment, and asked councilors to continue engagement, visit programs, and provide feedback on priorities.
No formal action was voted during the presentation; staff said they would continue pursuing grants, partnerships, and program expansions.
