Local Activities

All-Star Cheerleading is an exciting sport that is perfect for those looking for a competitive and high-energy activity. This type of cheerleading involves teams of athletes that compete against one another to impress judges with their skills, stunts, and choreographed routines. All-Star cheerleading can take place at both local and national competitions and is a great way to stay physically active and develop teamwork skills. Competitive cheerleading is an intense sport that requires athleticism, commitment, and hard work. Teams of athletes are judged on their skills, stunts, and routines, which require participants to be in excellent physical condition. This activity helps to develop strength, flexibility, and coordination, as well as confidence and focus. It is also a great way to make friends and learn valuable life skills such as time management, leadership, and teamwork. All-Star and competitive cheerleading are great options for those looking for an exciting and challenging sport. Both activities involve teamwork, physical exertion, and the development of important skills. They are a fantastic way to stay physically active and develop valuable life skills. Whether competing at a local or national level, these activities can help to foster a sense of community, leadership, and self-confidence.

At the YMCA Southcoast, we’re passionate about strengthening our community. We believe that everyone, no matter their age, income level or background, deserves the opportunity to learn and grow. That’s why we’re committed to being the leading non-profit organization dedicated to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. We strive to make sure that everyone in our community has the chance to reach their potential. We work side-by-side with our neighbors to improve the spiritual, mental, social, educational, and physical conditions of all persons. Our mission is to create an environment where everyone can flourish. At YMCA Southcoast, we’re driven by our commitment to building a stronger and more unified community. We strive to create a world where everyone can access the resources and support they need to reach their full potential. We’re dedicated to making sure that everyone – no matter their age, income, or background – has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.

PACE Head Start and Early Head Start provide families in Greater New Bedford with valuable resources and support. These programs offer a comprehensive range of services for children from birth to age 5, including health, nutrition, mental health, disabilities, education, and family services. To qualify, families must meet income eligibility requirements. Best of all, these services are free of charge. This comprehensive program is available Monday through Friday, part-year and year-round. PACE Head Start and Early Head Start are committed to providing family-centered programming for over 264 income-eligible families in the Greater New Bedford area. With these services, families can get the help they need to give their youngest members a strong start in life. PACE Head Start and Early Head Start provide a range of services to support families in the Greater New Bedford area. These services include health, nutrition, mental health, disabilities, education, and family services that are available for children from birth to age 5. Families who meet the income eligibility guidelines can access these services free of charge. The program is available part-year and year-round, Monday through Friday, to ensure families receive the best care possible. With PACE Head Start and Early Head Start, over 264 income-eligible families can access the resources and support they need to give their children the best start in life.

PACE was founded in 1982 to provide essential services to the Greater New Bedford Area and promote self-sufficiency for its residents. Community meetings were held to form a new agency and create a 21-member Board of Directors. Now, PACE is a thriving non-profit Community Action Agency with more than 10 programs and 150 staff members. It has a budget of 72 million dollars, made up of funding from the city, state, federal government, private foundations, and individual contributors.

Are you ready to take on the challenge of top-roping? Our experts will guide you through the basics, starting with your first climb only 5 feet off the ground. Learn how to wear your harness correctly and get comfortable with the wall. See how easy it is to be lowered off the wall with the auto belays. Move forward with your confidence and have fun as you learn the ropes.

Are you looking for a workout that will make you feel great? JP Boxing's group classes are the perfect way to build strength and stamina while you learn the proper form for boxing. Each session starts with jump rope and stretches to warm up, then participants move on to boxing bag work, mitt work, and core strengthening exercises. At JP Boxing's supportive and motivating environment, you'll get an intense workout that will leave you feeling proud. Surround yourself with other like-minded people and get ready to sweat! If you're searching for an effective way to stay fit and have fun while doing it, then join JP Boxing's group classes today! With experienced coaches to guide you, you'll be able to boost your strength and endurance while perfecting your form. So, come on in and get ready to reach your fitness goals!

Xcel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu New Bedford MA offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for self-defense, competition, or MMA training, our state-of-the-art facility provides Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and Wrestling instruction for both men and women. Our program is designed to improve skill, confidence, and foster teamwork in a supportive and fun environment for kids and adults alike. Plus, our team competes in some of the most prestigious submission grappling tournaments in the country. You can trust that our coaches will pass on the best, most relevant, and proven techniques—they’ve won at the highest levels of their divisions, after all! So, come on down to Xcel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu New Bedford MA and find the right program for you.

As part of this mission, the BPZOO recently achieved American Zoological Association (AZA) accreditation. This means that the BPZOO meets the highest standards set by AZA for animal care, exhibit quality, educational programming and conservation projects. Having attained this distinction, the BPZOO joins a select group of only 240 accredited zoos and aquariums in the United States, out of the more than 2,400 animal exhibiters licensed by the US Department of Agriculture. The AZA is committed to improving the quality of life for animals while also educating the public about wildlife, their habitats and conservation strategies. With AZA accreditation, the BPZOO continues to be at the forefront of global wildlife conservation and will ensure that animals receive excellent care and the public is well-informed about wildlife and their habitats.

Nativity Preparatory School of New Bedford opened its doors in the fall of 2000, responding to a request from a foundation to create a tuition-free school for boys from families who could not otherwise afford private school. Executive Director Barry Hynes, a former teacher at Nativity Mission School in New York, and founder of Nativity Preparatory School of Boston, recruited a principal with teaching experience and three mission-driven teachers. These teachers committed to six days (and many evenings) of hard work as classroom teachers, coaches, janitors, advisors, and office staff, in order to adapt the Nativity model to New Bedford. To this day, the school continues to thrive thanks to the hard work and dedication of these teachers. Their enthusiasm and commitment to the Nativity model remain a pillar of the school’s success. Nativity Preparatory School of New Bedford has been able to provide an incredible opportunity to 12 fifth and sixth grade boys since its opening.

For nearly 40 years, PACE has been committed to providing essential services to the Greater New Bedford Area. As a private, non-profit Community Action Agency, PACE was established in 1982 in response to the need for essential services in the local community. After a series of meetings, a 21-member Board of Directors was established to oversee the new agency and ensure it was meeting its goals of promoting self-sufficiency for local residents and neighborhoods. Today, PACE operates more than 10 programs, employs over 150 staff members, and has a budget of over 72 million dollars. This budget is funded through a variety of sources, including city, state, federal, private foundations and individual donors. PACE continues to be dedicated to providing essential services to the Greater New Bedford Area and is proud to have served its community for nearly 40 years.

Camp Frederick Douglass at the New Bedford YMCA honors the legacy of world-renowned African-American social reformer, abolitionist, orator, writer, and statesman, Frederick Douglass. In addition to our traditional camp games and activities, campers will learn about Frederick Douglass and the history of his time in the city of New Bedford through daily projects, field trips, museum visits, and hands-on activities.

We believe in a ‘home away from home’ atmosphere, and know that when parents are involved in their children’s growth and development, the results are much more positive. Our dedicated staff have a passion for helping children reach their full potential, and strive to create an environment that encourages children to learn, explore, and grow. At Crayon Campus, Inc., we understand the importance of providing a safe, secure, and nurturing environment for your children. We believe in building on the strengths of each individual child and helping them to achieve their goals. Our philosophy is to provide the highest level of care for children while also engaging their parents in their development. We are proud to offer a ‘home away from home’ atmosphere that not only provides the best care for children, but also allows for parent involvement.

Let your creativity flow, and you will be amazed by the results. Are you looking for an exciting and creative way to spend an evening or afternoon? Look no further! Our “Experience” Art as Entertainment classes provide step-by-step instructions to help you create your very own masterpiece painting. In a relaxed, fun atmosphere, you can uncork your artistic abilities and take home your artistry on canvas at the end of the day. We offer a public calendar of events, as well as private parties – all with BYOB for adult classes. We also offer customizable classes for children of all ages, so everyone can experience the joy of expressing their creativity. Our classes are sure to be a great way to take a break and let your imagination run wild. At the end of your art class, you’ll be amazed by the results and will be proud to take home your masterpiece painting. So join us for an unforgettable evening or afternoon of fun – and get creative!

Elnora M. Williams established the West End Day Nursery of New Bedford, Inc. in 1941, and it was incorporated three years later in 1944. This organization is dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment for children, with a range of programs including family services, child development, education, health, recreation, and nutrition. All of these activities are designed to give children the best start in life.

At NorthStar, we firmly believe that poverty, discrimination, educational disadvantage, violence, and other adversity can be overcome with the right tools. Our mission is to equip young people with the skills and confidence they need to transform their lives and communities. We want to provide everyone with the opportunity to succeed. Our organization is committed to advocating for diversity in public policy, recognizing it as a strength that can open pathways to a better life. We are a minority-led nonprofit dedicated to making sure that everyone has the chance to succeed. At NorthStar, we strive to empower young people of all backgrounds and help them to realize their full potential. We believe that our work is essential to creating a brighter future for all. We are committed to making sure that everyone can lead a better life and access the resources they need to do so.

BackStage Dance Academy has been providing the Massachusetts area with quality dance and gymnastics education since August of 2000. We offer classes for children ages 2 and up, as well as adults, in a welcoming and inspiring environment. Our instructors make sure all participants have fun while learning the basics of dance and gymnastics. BackStage Dance Academy also has a competitive dance team for those interested in taking their dancing skills to the next level. Our team is made up of dancers from all skill levels, and is a great way to take part in the performance aspect of dance and gymnastics. No matter your age, experience or goals, BackStage Dance Academy has something for everyone. Join us and become part of our passionate and dedicated community of dancers and gymnasts!

At Catherine Carter Art Studio, aspiring artists of all ages can acquire the skills to take their work to the next level. From the novice to the professional, the studio provides a welcoming classroom environment with clear and precise instruction. Whether it’s learning the basics or exploring more advanced techniques, students are encouraged to discover their own unique creative voices. The studio offers traditional art instruction, with a focus on helping students develop their artistic skills. With instruction tailored to each individual’s needs, the studio helps students of all ages achieve their goals and create meaningful works of art. At Catherine Carter Art Studio, parents can be sure their children will receive the highest quality instruction. From beginner to experienced artist, the studio provides a safe and inspiring space for students to develop their creative skills and find their own unique artistic expression.

Located in New Bedford MA, Early Learning Child Care of New Bedford is a non-profit early learning center for children from infants to school-age. We provide a high-quality, nurturing environment that encourages learning and development. We recognize the importance of a positive self-concept and are committed to fostering it in each child. We ensure that each child is treated with respect and embraced for their individual personality and strengths. We believe that families play an essential role in the development of their children and we strive to support that. We use a variety of approaches to help children reach their fullest potential, including developmentally appropriate practices. Our aim is to provide quality care while helping children grow and learn.

Since 1980, Little People’s College has been providing quality childcare and enrichment programs in Southeast Massachusetts. Our summer camp program includes a wide variety of activities to fit every child’s needs and interests. We offer a safe and nurturing environment with experienced staff that are dedicated to helping children learn and grow. At Little People’s College, we believe every child is unique and deserves the very best. Our goal is to provide quality childcare and enrichment programs that will help prepare your child for the future. We strive to create a relaxed, trusting, and caring atmosphere where children are encouraged to pursue their own interests, develop friendships, and grow in confidence, independence, and respect for themselves and others.

At AAPA, we understand the importance of teaching and fostering respect, teamwork, and camaraderie in our students. In a safe and nurturing environment, our certified instructors ensure harmony and sportsmanship are present while helping our students reach their educational and personal goals through their journey in performing arts.

At our studio, we believe that dance education should be fun and accessible to everyone. Our experienced instructors strive to provide a positive atmosphere for all ages and levels of experience. We are dedicated to inspiring creativity, confidence, and a love for the performing arts. We offer a wide variety of dance styles for all ages, from 2.9 and up. Ballet, lyrical, jazz, tap, hip hop, and pointe are all available and we are a certified Acro Arts studio. For those looking for more challenging opportunities, we offer competitive teams. Our studio is a place where everyone can join a dance family and learn in a safe and supportive environment.

Little People's College has been providing quality childcare services in Southeast Mass. since 1980. We specialize in infant/toddler, preschool, pre-kindergarten, childcare, daycare, before/after school care and summer camp services. Our goal is to provide a safe environment for your child while fostering learning, creativity, and socialization. We strive to create a relaxed, trusting, and caring atmosphere for our little ones. Our staff is well-trained and dedicated to ensure each child is challenged and supported as they grow and learn. We want to help your child develop a strong sense of confidence, independence, and respect for themselves and others.

At Sunshine’s Place INC, we believe in embracing a holistic approach to early childhood education. We strive to provide young children with a range of learning experiences, so they can begin to explore their own capabilities and understand the world around them. Our unique approach is designed to ensure that when children leave our Childcare Center, they’re well-prepared for what lies ahead. At Sunshine’s Place INC, we recognize the importance of adopting a holistic approach to early childhood education. We understand the need to provide children with a diverse range of learning experiences and opportunities to explore their own self-awareness. We strive to ensure that when they eventually leave our Childcare Center, they have the knowledge and skills they need to transition into the next stage of their lives. We at Sunshine’s Place INC are passionate about providing a holistic learning environment for young children. We want to ensure that all children have the opportunity to explore their individual capabilities and gain a greater understanding of the world around them. Through a variety of interactive activities and learning opportunities, we are confident that when they leave our Childcare Center, they will have the necessary tools to continue their journey successfully.

At Crayon Campus, your little ones will have a day full of fun and learning. Our infant, toddler, preschool, and school-age care offers a variety of activities, such as outside play, storytime, music, and building blocks. Your child will be engaged in creative exploration and manipulatives, all of which foster learning. Our preschool curriculum is designed to help foster literacy, science, dramatic play, math, music, art, and large and small motor development. Through learning centers, your child will have the opportunity to explore and develop these skills. Our before and after school program includes activities such as homework help, cooperative games, and group activities. We believe in providing your children with a safe and stimulating environment that will help promote their growth and development.

NorthStar is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping young people, especially members of minority groups, overcome the many challenges they face. NorthStar works to provide these young people with the essential skills and hope they need to create a better life for themselves and their communities. NorthStar also advocates for diversity as a strength and a resource, pushing for policy that will open more opportunities for these young people. Through NorthStar's mission, young people are being empowered with the tools they need to overcome adversity. NorthStar provides them with the skills and hope to create a better life for themselves and their communities. NorthStar works to ensure that these individuals are given the resources they need to succeed and are represented in public policy. NorthStar is committed to improving the lives of young people and making sure that they have the opportunity to break the cycle of poverty, discrimination, and violence. Through NorthStar, these individuals are provided with the essential competencies and hope necessary to make a positive impact on their lives and their communities.

. At Little People's College, we understand the importance of providing a safe, caring, and nurturing environment for children to grow. Our dedicated and hard-working staff is committed to delivering the best early education and care for children. We strive to provide a place where children are loved and feel safe, secure, and respected, so they can reach their fullest potential in physical, emotional, social, cognitive, and language development. We are proud to offer a variety of engaging activities to cultivate learning and growth. From art to music to language development, our curriculum is designed to meet the individual needs of each child. We invite you to take a look at our slide show to get a better idea of what we have to offer. You are also welcome to come by for a surprise visit to see why families trust us to take care of their children.

At Creative Playschool we strive to create a secure, warm atmosphere where each child will develop a positive self-image. Our experienced staff creates a balance of play and learning activities, that promote physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development. We provide a variety of enriching experiences to help children learn and grow. Through our innovative teaching and learning techniques, we strive to prepare each child for success in school and life. We provide a variety of fun and educational activities such as art, music, and story time that help children to learn and develop. Our curriculum is designed to foster creativity and encourage exploration. We are committed to helping each child reach his or her fullest potential.

For over 40 years, Little People’s College has served the community in Southeast Mass., providing quality childcare, daycare, and summer camp services. We believe in creating a safe, nurturing, and fun environment for children to explore, learn, and grow. Our experienced staff is dedicated to helping children build the skills necessary to become successful in life. We understand the importance of providing an environment that encourages independent thinking, promotes self-confidence, and nurtures self-expression. We look forward to working with you and your child.

The BCIU offers a wide variety of services that include alternative and special education, early intervention, and services to at-risk students and students with disabilities. BCIU also provides curriculum, instruction, and professional staff development services. Business and information management services, instructional media services, public relations services, and pupil transportation are also provided by the BCIU. All of these services are designed to help students succeed in school and beyond. The BCIU is committed to helping students, families, educators, and school districts. By providing these services, the BCIU is able to help create an environment where all students can reach their full potential. The BCIU is dedicated to providing high-quality and innovative services to schools and communities in Berks County.

Many New Bedford area youth, especially those living in poverty, face an uphill struggle toward becoming healthy, educated, responsible, and self-sustaining adults. In our work with youth, our job is to awaken a sense of possibility and opportunity and help them take action steps toward achieving the new personal, educational, and vocational goals they have set for themselves. Our programs are grounded in the positive youth development theory of change and the social theory of youth empowerment. We draw from multiple evidence-supported youth-serving models, including standards for effective afterschool and youth mentoring programs.