At New Mercy Outreach, we believe every child deserves a safe place to grow, dream, and learn — especially our foster youth. This summer, that place was our Summer Adventure Program.
From June 2nd through August 7th, 2025, foster youth ages 5–17 stepped into a world of hands-on experiences designed to inspire creativity, encourage personal growth, and build teamwork. This also provided foster families the gift of respite during the busy summer months.
Each week offered a new theme:
- STEM & Innovation
- Arts & Creativity
- Outdoor Adventures & Sports
- Leadership & Personal Growth
- Career Exploration & Life Skills
- Health & Wellness
- Community Service & Social Impact
- Cultural Awareness & Global Learning
- + Vacation Bible School.
We started each day with breakfast, followed by a themed two-hour activity block, lunch, social time, and group clean-up. By the time afternoon rolled around, it was time for workshops, games, or planned field trips before ending with group discussion.
Activities were tailored by age, ensuring every child was supported and challenged in just the right way.
We are deeply grateful to our partners who made this summer possible: The Bird Sanctuary, Buckeye Museum, Buckeye Bakery, The Renaissance Theater, Mansfield Playhouse, La Luna Dance Studio, YMCA, Kelly’s Golf, Cinemark 10, Salvation Army, Legacy School, Stephanie Massey, Stacey Dorcey, Javonte Myers, Monica Hunt, and Sherrita Rogers.
As Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us, “For I know the plans I have for you… plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This summer, every activity, lesson, and every relationship built was a reminder that God’s plans for our youth are filled with hope, growth, and a bright future. We worked to show them that they are valued, loved and created with a purpose.
To our community — thank you for believing in our kids. If you have time, talents, or lessons to share, we’d love for you to join us next summer. Together, we can keep creating adventures that change lives. 💜