Wesleyan MetroPark
Adventure Central
Empowering, life-changing adventure
For families in the West Dayton community, Adventure Central at Wesleyan MetroPark is transforming lives. The center empowers youth in West Dayton to become healthier, happier and more successful through nature exploration, homework assistance and a wide variety of out-of-school educational programs that strengthen values, develop long-term positive relationships and build lasting life skills to create caring, capable and contributing citizens of tomorrow. The most common phrase heard at Adventure Central is “I wanna go outside!”
Adventure Central is the result of a partnership among Five Rivers MetroParks, The Ohio State University Extension and 4-H Youth Development. Adventure Central’s positive youth development partnership is based on a proven model of long-term commitment and high touch integrated with opportunities to connect with nature. The result: strengthened values, lasting life skills and both an eagerness and confidence to explore life’s possibilities by building trusting and positive relationships with caring adults for the purpose of connecting youth and their parents with nature.
Watch a video about the program
Mission
To promote positive youth development education and leadership skills using an environmental foundation in a welcoming, safe, fun, active setting that utilizes volunteers and community resources with adult and youth interaction.
Key Goals
- Positive youth development
- Improved academic behavior
- Enjoy activities with a focus on nature, science and computer technology
- Develop life skills
- Bond with parents through activities
- Instill a sense of ownership of program
Program Highlights
After-School Programs
After-school programs focus on a wide variety of subjects. Civic duty, nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices, critical thinking, environmental awareness and more are taught through fun, accessible program curricula.
Summer Day Camps
Spending time in nature is proven to improve kids’ health and well-being. Day camps involve fun, educational outdoor activities on a number of different subjects.
Activity Nights
Activity nights serve as an introduction to Adventure Central programs. Emphasis is on learning Adventure Central culture and expectations, building relationships with youth and families and ultimately integrating youth into after-school or day camp programs.
Overnight Camping
Experience the great outdoors, learn survival skills and have fun in nature at the annual overnight camp.
Parent & Family Engagement
Youth and families can form lasting memories as they participate in activities together.
Teen Programs
Multiple opportunities are available for teens and older youth as participants and volunteers and through workforce preparation programs. Come learn and serve with us as we grow the next generation of citizens, leaders and conservationists.
Volunteer Programs
Short or long-term opportunities to volunteer with the program or park are available. Call (937) 278-2601 or email reception@adventurecentral.org to discuss.
