On Friday, July 21, 2017 Catholic Social Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia (CSS) hosted its seventh annual picnic for approximately 650 children and youth from 10 Out of School Time (OST) Programs.

For more than 20 years, CSS has served at-risk children and youth in grades K-12 through OST programs located throughout the city of Philadelphia. During the school year, the programs provide challenging and engaging learning experiences that help children develop the social, emotional, physical, and academic skills vital to future educational achievement.

Throughout the summer months, OST programs support working families by offering safe environments for their children to participate in recreational activities and academic reinforcement programs to help them avoid summer learning loss.

In addition, CSS implements the Summer WorkReady Program managed by the Philadelphia Youth Network to provide high school students with educationally enriched work opportunities at various OST sites. This paid six-week program helps youth to understand the importance of work etiquette, skill attainment, and high school completion.

Of the 150 OST employees who attended this year’s picnic, approximately six participated in an OST program themselves as young children in addition to the Summer WorkReady Program as high school youth.

Children and youth who attended this year’s picnic had a unique opportunity to enjoy summer fun in the park’s ample green space and recreational offerings. Activities included sports, games, rock climbing, swimming, face painting, and more.