Youth Programs

Data STEAAM

UDC-CAUSES and Data Science Camp Inc. offer a six-week in-person business intelligence program for DC high school students (ages 14-18). The Data Science, Technology, Engineering, Architecture, Agriculture, and Mathematics (STEAAM) camp program is designed to recruit and immerse students in an intensive, project-based initiative to use data analytics to address critical issues of public policy. Participants will gain hands-on research experiences with real-world methods and industry experts; mastering data mining, data assessment, and critical thinking—tools that open doors to your future generations.

Participants will:

• Address agriculture, architecture and energy policy challenges
• Explore campus simulation labs, urban food labs, and research farms
• Discover data science, engineering and architecture careers
• Construct 3D models to support their research

Hydroponics Vegetable Farming

Discover how to grow fresh vegetables and produce using cutting-edge hydroponic technology. High school students (ages 14-18) learn how to grow fresh foods and harvest in small spaces through our hands-on hydroponics program, which is a soilless environment to grow fruits and vegetables.

Participants will gain knowledge:

• Grow nutrient powerhouses using vertical farming
• Master the process from seed to harvest
• Discover nutritional benefits of fresh produce
• Gain skills for urban farming in small spaces
• Explore urban agriculture business opportunities
• Serve as local vendors at the UDC Farmers Markets

UDC 4-H Summer Soccer Program

The UDC 4-H Summer Soccer Program serves district youth aged 12-19 years old through pre-season conditioning and competitive league play.

Participants will:

• Build physical health, competitive edge, character development, & cognitive development skills
• Learn about nutrition and long-term healthy living objectives
• Boost athletic confidence, enhance self-esteem, and fitness activity
• Connect with teammates, build lifelong fitness habits, & create healthy lifestyles

The Summer Soccer League offers three divisions (U19 boys, U19 girls, U12 coed). Games are played at Columbia Heights Educational Campus and the UDC soccer field. Players develop skills on and off the field through competitive play.

Green Zone Environmental Program (GZEP)

The D.C. Department of Energy and Environment's (DOEE) Green Zone Environmental Program offers youth (ages 14-24) environmental education and career training in sustainability, energy, water, wildlife and natural resources.

Participants will:

• Install rain gardens
• Work in native plant greenhouses
• Collect seeds and remove invasive plants
• Maintain trees and beautify neighborhoods
• Provide conservation services across the District
• Learn from DOEE professionals, Master Naturalists and environmental experts

Participants develop job skills in environmental science, sustainability and urban conservation while making direct community impact.

Urban Arboriculture Arborist Program (UAAP)

This new introductory summer camp: Native Tree Farm and Research (NTFR) Urban Arboriculture Arborist Summer Camp introduces campers to the science, stewardship, and hands-on work of caring for urban environments. Students (ages 16-24) learn invasive pest control care and behavior observations while tackling DC region's invasive spotted lanternfly environments.

Participants will:

• Explore DC's tree canopy with certified arborists
• Study tree biology, health and soil science
• Monitor, capture and assess lanternflies
• Collect specimens and record data
• Learn invasive pest control strategies that protect urban ecosystems
• Observe climbing demonstrations and learn pruning basics
• Discover how trees support climate resilience

Participants develop practical arboriculture skills and explore careers in forestry, landscaping and conservation through real-world problem-solving.