Cambridge NY Youth Commission Logo

Cambridge Youth Commission

Cambridge Valley’s  Afterschool Program

Caring, Devoted Role Models

Recreation Spaces
Creating Future Leaders

Programs from:
Kindergarten to 17 Year Olds

Register Now!

CYC Where Adventure Begins

The mission of the Cambridge Youth Commission is to create enriching opportunities for the youth of the Cambridge Community.  We strive to empower youth to find their strengths and encourage growth and development through youth-oriented programs.  The Youth Commission focuses on service opportunities, healthy lifestyle, physical activity and recreation, self-improvement and confidence and community involvement.  We aim to prepare youth for leadership, responsibility and to become active citizens in their community. 

Through service and the youth program, youth will gain the confidence and leadership skills that will help lead in positive directions and away from negative life choices like drugs and alcohol.  A confident youth will recognize negative behaviors and make better choices. At Cambridge Youth Commission, we are building leaders for our future community.


What We Offer

Summer Programs

We keep your child busy in the summer in a fun, interactive environment with unique daily activities. Developing friendships and relationships with other youth.

After-School Recreation Program
Our after-school kids have a fun, safe, exciting environment to spend their afternoons, to unwind and enjoy recreation with friends.  

Youth Programs

From exciting learning activities to finding new interests, we help our rising youth discover their paths through our unique and youth-oriented programs.

Future Leaders of Our Community
We help our teens gain confidence, encourage good choices and help to prepare for life's future challenges.



Join Us Today To Enhance Your Child's Future!

REGISTER TODAY

Testimonials

See why local parents choose our programs!

The Honyoust Family

As full time working parents the Cambridge Youth Commission has been such a blessing! They offer both after-school care and a summer program.  The building is spacious and kept in immaculate condition, giving the children plenty of space for getting  all their energy out rain or shine! The staff is more than accommodating and the communication is outstanding.  Their hours are wonderful for the working parent having late pick up.  Our kiddos absolutely love this program, in fact at times have requested we not pick them up early.  Knowing our kids are happy and safe makes the CYC the best choice for our family, We encourage you to give it a try. 

The Harrington Family

The first word that pops up is thankful. I am very thankful to be able to have the opportunity to involve my child in the activities that are provided. The smile on my daughters face when she comes home everyday is priceless. Growing up I didn't have the opportunity to be involved in any activities, so to be able to do things that I was not able to do is what it's all about. The love the staff have for my child melts my heart. I'm just grateful to be a part of a small loving community. CYC helps so much.

The Pierce Family

Our  family absolutley loves attending Cambridge Youth Comission afterschool program, as well as summer camp. From the daily walks, to the many activities (indoors and out), and the personal interaction with the staff we cannot ask for a better program for our community. I personally love when I show up to pick my children up and see them engaged in activities with others, never wanting to leave.  Friendly smiles and greetings from staff and other families is a bonus if you ask me!!

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Cambridge Community Center
Play Areas & Activities


Kids love coming to the Community Center for the many recreation spaces we provide.  With a playroom, quiet room, maker space, homework space, eat in space, group activity space and gym to explore, the play is endless. They can explore while they make new friends and create relationships. We provide many opportunities for your child to explore the world, develop leadership and confidence in a safe and happy kid-friendly environment.

Call Us Today 518-677-2622

Programs To Fit Your Lifestyle

 

Cambridge Youth Commission realizes that your busy life sometimes throws you curve balls. That’s why we open early and offer flexible pickup times as well. We also walk with after school kids from Cambridge Central School.


Additionally, we have a number of programs to fit your child’s exact needs. From flat monthly rates to occasional visits, we have a perfect plan for everyone.

Highest Rated Afterschool In Cambridge

Kids love our fun staff, and parents love our high quality programming. 

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The Myth Of Youth Programs

Students who attend the top youth programs in their state have a huge benefit in education. Studies have shown these students rank in the top 10 percentile nationwide in standardized testing in grades K-12!
Call Us to Learn More!
Who We Are

Proven Youth Leaders in Cambridge. When The Village of Cambridge founded the Youth Commission, our goal was to create a fun, interactive environment where our children could play, gain confidence and make great choices.  Empower the future leaders of the community. That’s why we only hire the most qualified staff in the Cambridge Valley.

Many years later, we are consistently recognized as one of the top youth programs in the area. It’s our commitment to your child that fuels our passion.
Call us today at 518-677-2622 to learn how we can help.

Meet Our Team

Emily Jenkins
Director
Emily has been in recreation for many years.  With a child development, recreation and educational background she brings a passion and love for youth programs to the CYC team. She manages all of the CYC programs.
Jolen Bauscher
Assistant Director
 
Jolene has been with the program for many years.  She is the heart of the CYC team.  She has been an intergal part of the Cambridge Community for just as long. She oversees both the after-school and summer camp.
Rachel Markham
Head Counselor
Rachel has been with the program since she was a teenager.  Working with both the after-school program and summer camp. She uses her creativity to bring science and fun activities to CYC programs.
Hailey Bauscher
Counselor
Hailey is the newest member of the CYC team.  She attended when she was younger and grew up in the program.  She is staff for both the after-school and summer progam.  She loves working with children and brings that excitement to the program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q

What is the best way to contact Cambridge Youth Commission?

Contact the Director, Emily Jenkins: youth@cambridgeny.gov.  Usually all communications are returned within 48 hours.

Q

When can I register my child for the after-school program?

We take registrations on a rolling basis.  You may register your child anytime throughout the year.  You must turn your registration into the Director 24 hours in advance of your child's start date.

Q

I do not live in the village can my child still participate in the Cambridge Youth programs?

Absolutely, we serve Cambridge and all its surrounding communities.

Q

If my child stays after school for a club or support room, can they still attend after-school program?

Yes, they will be picked up from the school by a CYC staff member.  CYC must be notified 24 hours in advance, for planning purposes.

Q

Do I have to pay for days my child does not attend the Cambridge Youth Programs?

No, after-school is a drop-in program and flexible to meet the needs of the community, you only pay the flat fee for the days your child attends.

Yes, Summer Day Camp, we do not offer a la carte option, the tuition must be paid for the full week your child attends as we only have limited spots available.

Q

Are the Cambridge Youth Commission programs all inclusive?

Absolutely, as stated in our mission we strive to create confident empowered youth and encourage all children in our programs to be who they are.

Q

Do you have a discipline policy?

We do, it is a 4-step program that is included in the Youth Policy you will recieve once your child is registered for a program.

Q

What is the Cambridge Youth Commission youth cell-phone policy?

This policy is outlined in the Youth Policy. For more details, please click the link.

Q

What happens in inclement weather?

After-school: If Cambridge Central School is closed or closes early due to inclement weather the after-school program is also closed.

Summer Day Camp: We have a very large pavilion space at Lake Lauderdale, and we stay under cover in inclement weather.  If the weather is severe enough, we follow emergency protocols.

Q

What documents do I need to provide to programming?

For summer camp you will need to provide your campers latest physical and vaccination records.  For further information please contact the Director, Emily Jenkins: youth@cambridgeny.gov

Q

What are the children to staff ratios for the Cambridge Youth Commission programs?

After-school: 1 staff to 10 children
Summer Day Camp: 1 staff to 12 campers
Swimming has its own ratios with increased staff & lifeguards

Q

Does the Cambridge Youth Commission programs go on field trips?

After-school: Walking field trips to local community opportunity, the Library and Durin Park.  You will sign a permission slip and receive notice when children will be leaving the Community Center.

Summer Day Camp:  Camp is currently not traveling for the 2023 summer

Located Right in Cambridge Village
Cambridge Youth Commission  Office
Location: Cambridge Village Office
Cambridge Community Center

Cambridge Valley Summer Day Camp
Location: Lake Lauderdale County Park