Youth Programming
What began as a Thursday night Bible study with hundreds of youth from the area has blossomed into year around programming for children preschool through high school.
Whether it’s in the after-school or summer programs or at one of our many special events, students from Pullman, Fennville, Bloomingdale and surrounding areas have a safe, fun and caring environment at PHP where they can receive academic support, learn more about our world and experience the love of Christ.
At home, many of the children who attend our programming regularly lack some of the basic life resources needed to thrive. In order to fill those gaps, PHP partners with local schools and many other organizations to provide that extra support.
Our Yearly Impact
Children come to PHP for after-school programming every day
Children come to PHP for summer programs every day
Teenage students grew in their leadership skills by volunteering as mentors for the Summer Program
Students supported with back-to-school supplies and clothing
Elementary, middle, and high school students attend Bible Study at PHP’s Linking Center
Programs
After School Programs
Elementary (Monday – Thursday, 3:00PM – 5:30PM)
When preschool through 5th grade students arrive at the Linking Center, they are welcomed by a team of caring adults committed to their growth and well‑being. Students join age‑appropriate groups where they share a meal, build friendships, receive academic support, explore creative activities, and simply enjoy being kids. Parents pick up their children at the end of the day knowing their children have been nurtured and encouraged.
Middle School (Tuesday & Thursday, 4:00 – 5:30PM)
When middle school students (grades 6–8) arrive at the Linking Center, they share a meal together and spend time playing games, doing crafts, getting academic support, and talking about life. Our staff and volunteers foster a safe, caring environment where students feel comfortable opening up and being honest about the challenges they face as middle schoolers in today’s world.
Youth Ministry
On Thursday evenings children and students from Pre-K – 12th grade come to PHP’s Linking Center for a meal and Bible study (often called “church” by students). After a free dinner, they break into age appropriate groups and have fun learning through stories, games and videos about Jesus.
Summer Program
Elementary (Preschool – 5th Grade)
During the summer months, elementary students arrive in the morning for a day filled with fun activities. They receive a morning snack, lunch and return home with a sack supper. The programming is designed to be outdoors and includes time on our nature playscape, crafts, sports, field trips to farms, zoos, the beach, museums and more. Each age group will have caring adult leaders that will play, instruct and guide them through each day.
Middle & High School Leadership Development Program
Our Summer Leadership Development Program is open to middle and high school students who want to grow their leadership skills while serving younger children. Students will apply in the spring and participate in an application and interview process, giving them valuable experience similar to applying for a future job.
Participants in the program will arrive before the elementary program each day to assist with setup and preparation. During the day, each student will be paired with an adult staff member or volunteer and will help lead an elementary group by playing with the children, supporting activities, and providing general assistance.
At the end of the day, leadership students will help with cleanup and prepare materials for the next day’s activities. They will also attend field trips, where their primary role will be to support and encourage the elementary-age participants.
At the end of the summer, all leadership participants will be honored with a special celebration to recognize their hard work, growth, and accomplishments.
Support Us
Over 40 regular volunteers make our youth programming possible. Learn more about how you can make a difference volunteering or supporting PHP financially.