Summer is almost here! The City of Birmingham Mayor’s Office Division of Youth Services (DYS) wants to help you find the best opportunity for your young people to stay active and engaged during the break. This page is dedicated to helping keep you and your family connected to summer opportunities throughout the City of Birmingham. Information about upcoming summer camps and educational programs offered for young people from grades K-12th will be listed on this page. We will also provide information about summer job and intern opportunities for youth ages 18-24. Check out the links to other city departments and divisions offering youth programs as well. For more information about summer opportunities feel free to email us at dys@birminghamal.gov or give us a call at (205) 320-0879.
The Birmingham Museum of Art, one of the finest regional museums in the United States, houses a diverse collection of more than 27,000 paintings, sculpture, prints, drawings, and decorative arts dating from ancient to modern times. The collection presents a rich panorama of cultures, featuring the Museum’s extensive holdings of Asian, European, American, African, Pre-Columbian, and Native American art. The mission of the Birmingham Museum of Art is to spark the creativity, imagination, and liveliness of Birmingham by connecting all its citizens to the experience, meaning, and joy of art.
Learn more about internships at the BMA by clicking HERE!
Birmingham Park and Recreation
Birmingham Park and Recreation manages 21 recreation centers, which offer programs and activities for all ability levels in the arts, co-ed recreation, sports and more. Summer Camp registration is currently underway at select recreation centers. Space is limited. Additionally, you may reserve a recreation center or park pavilion for your special event. For information on the facility nearest you, call 205-254-2391.
The mission of the Birmingham Public Library is to provide the highest quality experience to our community for lifelong learning, cultural enrichment and enjoyment. The libraries are back open to the public with fewer hours but the same geat resources are available. Librarians are also availble to schedule virtual programs for schools, homeschoolers and daycares. Library staff are currently working on rolling out both virtual and in person summer programming. Visit BPL’s website for more information.
Negro Southern League Museum (NSLM)
The Negro League players were an inspiration to kids playing on baseball fields all across the country. The work they did in the sports arena opened the doors for many other individuals. The Negro Southern League Museum is proud to honor and recognize the legends of the Negro League. Due to concerns related to COVID-19 the NSLM is only receiving guests by appointment only. Tours are provided on a first-come, first-served basis to those who schedule their visit 24 hours in advance. Visit the museum’s website to learn more or call to make an appointment at (205) 581-3040.
The Southern Museum of Flight Is one of the largest aviation museums in the Southeast, is dedicated to presenting civilian, military, and experimental aircraft and memorabilia from the earliest history of powered flight. The 75,000 square foot facility houses over 100 aircraft, as well as engines, models, artifacts, photographs, and paintings. In addition, the Southern Museum of Flight is home to the Alabama Aviation Hall of Fame with over 70 biographical plaques presenting Alabama aviation history through collective biography. Guided tours are available to enhance your visit with hands-on-activity or a short course in the flight simulator lab at the Soar High Center. Learn more about tours HERE!
Sloss Furnaces was once the largest manufacturer of pig iron in the world. It stands today just as it did in the late 19th century — a monument to the Industrial Revolution. With its web of pipes and towering stoves, this unique National Historic Landmark provides visitors a glimpse into Birmingham’s rich industrial heritage. It stands with pride and is a symbol of where the “Magic” began for Birmingham. Sloss also strives to provide entertaining and educational opportunities for visitors. Although currently closed and available for tours by appointment only, the facility provides internships and educational opportunities throughout the summer. Youth 16-18 can apply now for the Summer Youth Apprenticeship program.
Summer Youth Apprenticeship 2021
Extended Application Deadline: April 23rd
Program Dates – June 7th- July 31st
This eight-week, paid apprenticeship employs 12-14 students, ages 16-18, to work and study under professional artists for 30 hours a week. The program is designed to expose students to a variety of metal art processes and techniques in a hands-on, individualized environment. Students can fill out the application and return it by April 23rd deadline.
Learn more about the program HERE!
