2026 Summer of Service
Calling all rising 9th graders through graduating seniors — come make a difference and have a summer of fun!
Program cost: Free
Donations of any amount are encouraged to help cover the cost of the program. Donations can be made online at this link
Please email register@youthcommunityservice.org for more information.
Summer of Service 2025, video credit to college interns: Oliver and Azaria
Registration Now Open!
Join students from across the San Francisco Bay Area for a 2-week service learning program where you will learn skills to make a difference in the community. The YCS Summer of Service is a service program for youth to engage in community leadership and civic engagement. Youth will have the opportunity to work together to plan service projects for the community, develop messaging and storytelling skills, and practice leadership and public speaking skills in a supportive, fun, engaging environment.
YCS Summer of Service will include: leadership training, teambuilding, team service projects, service in the community facilitated by YCS with our many community partners, and opportunities to lead others in service.
Missed the virtual open houses? We got you covered!
Summer of Service program will be Monday - Thursday in the afternoons, with optional service in the community in the morning and on weekends.
By the end of the summer, Summer of Service participants will complete:
A fun and engaging summer
The opportunity to earn service hours that are eligible for the Youth Community Service Award which serves as a credible recognition of service for colleges, universities, and employers.
Design a resume-ready description of the work they completed
Job readiness and work experience
Learn and practice leadership skills
Meet other teens from across the region
Program will take place in the greater East Palo Alto/Palo Alto area – All students are welcome! Specific times and locations will be shared with participants once registered.
All high school students (rising 9th through graduating seniors) are invited to apply to the YCS Summer of Service 2026.
SESSION 1
June 15, 2026
through
June 25, 2026
SESSION 2
June 29, 2026
through
July 9, 2026
SESSION 3
July 13, 2026
through
July 23, 2026
YCS Summer of Service Video 2024
Accessibility Note:
Scholarships:
To promote equitable access, the YCS Summer of Service we offer scholarship for students to use towards transportation and other expenses associated with accessing the summer program.
Accommodations:
We strive to make the space accessible for a variety of ability types and are committed to working with youth and families to make accommodations as needed.
Notes on the program that may affect participation for some.
YCS Summer of Service includes movement across areas, including uneven surfaces, some lifting (up to 10lbs.), walking and sitting for extended periods, reading, writing, and in-person verbal communication with team and community members.
