Kick-off event set for June 8 as local church aims to boost academic, social and physical development
With summer approaching and the academic year drawing to a close, Christian Valley Missionary Baptist Church is stepping up to fill a vital gap for youth in Gary by launching its annual “Valley Village” Summer Enrichment Camp. A kickoff ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, June 8, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. at the church, located at 1910 Adams Street.
The event will highlight program offerings and acknowledge key sponsors and community supporters who are backing the initiative designed for youth ages 5 to 18.
“The faith community plays a critical role in keeping our young people focused and engaged in positive activities,” said the Reverend De’Wan M. Bynum, Senior Pastor of Christian Valley. “Our summer enrichment program offers opportunities for their growth educationally and socially in a safe, nurturing environment.”
Running from June 9 through June 25, the camp will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. It will feature a curriculum centered on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), mentorship, and physical activity. A weekly field trip is also part of the experience, and participants will receive breakfast snacks and lunch. Transportation is available to and from the church.
Christian Valley’s program is part of a growing national trend that recognizes the role of summer enrichment in closing educational and developmental gaps. According to the National Summer Learning Association (NSLA), high-quality summer programs can help students gain up to three months of academic progress, while lack of summer learning can account for up to two-thirds of the achievement gap between low-income children and their more affluent peers by the ninth grade.
Beyond academics, studies show enrichment camps play a crucial role in social-emotional development. A 2021 report by the Afterschool Alliance found that programs emphasizing mentorship, physical activity, and peer interaction helped reduce summer learning loss and improve behavior, self-confidence, and interpersonal skills.
In Gary—where many youth face economic and environmental challenges—programs like Valley Village provide an essential alternative to idle time during the summer months. By incorporating field trips and interactive STEM activities, the camp aims to not only educate but also inspire a sense of curiosity and empowerment among participants.
The initiative also aligns with broader citywide and national efforts to expand access to out-of-school programming, especially in underserved communities. According to the Indiana Youth Institute, nearly 60% of Hoosier parents report difficulty finding affordable summer programs, with faith-based and nonprofit institutions filling much of the demand.
With its structured schedule and diverse offerings, Valley Village is positioned to make a measurable impact on participants’ academic readiness, health, and personal growth.
Parents and guardians interested in enrolling their children are encouraged to call the church office at 219-883-5762 for registration information.