Welcome to the Mary and Frances Youth Center!
Enhancing the lives of youth in the Richmond metro area
At the Mary and Frances Youth Center, we believe in the power of young people to shape a stronger, more connected community. Located on VCU's Monroe Park Campus, the Youth Center serves as a hub for youth programming, partnership, and leadership development in the Richmond region.
Nestled within VCU’s Division of Community Engagement, the Mary and Frances Youth Center is home to two private tennis courts and dedicated classrooms tailored for youth programming and educational training workshops for youth educators.
Through meaningful collaborations and evidence-based practices, we provide opportunities that equip youth with the skills, confidence, and support they need to thrive.
Our vision at the MFYC is to lead the way as a regional powerhouse in university-community collaborations for positive youth development.
MFYC Summer Camp Registration Now Open
MFYC Summer Camps provide fun, full-day programming for youth, running 8:30 AM–4:00 PM with breakfast and lunch included. Campers can choose between Tennis & Pickleball or Multi-Sports camps, all led by certified instructors in a safe and engaging environment.
Tennis & Pickleball Camps
- June 1–5 (Rising 1st–3rd graders)
- June 8–12 (Rising 2nd–5th graders)
- June 15–19 (Rising 5th–9th graders)
Multi-Sports Camps
- June 22–26 (Rising 1st–3rd graders)
- June 29–July 3 (Rising 3rd–5th graders)
- July 6–10 (Rising 4th–6th graders)
- July 13–17 (Rising 5th–9th graders)
Scholarships are available for a limited number of campers. Families selected for an individual scholarship pay $175 for a one-week camp. Scholarship applicants will receive a separate registration link if selected.
VCU Advanced Certificate in Youth Development Management
Empower yourself with essential skills in positive youth development. This new certificate is ideal for professionals in early childhood, youth / young adult programs, and health services and equips cohort members to excel as caregivers, mentors, teachers, and leaders of youth in the region. Tailored to address the unique needs of youth in the Richmond region, our program sets the standard for community engagement across Virginia! Join the cohort this year!
Read more about the VCU Advanced Certificate in Youth Development here.
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What We Do
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Youth Programming: We create and support high-quality, out-of-school-time programs focused on personal growth, creative expression, and leadership development.
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Community Partnerships: We work alongside local schools, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies to expand support to youth-centered resources and services.
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Capacity Building: We offer professional learning and coordination through initiatives like the Richmond Youth Development Network, helping to strengthen the programs that serve young people.
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Research & Evaluation: We promote data-informed practices to improve outcomes for youth and support continuous improvement across the sector.
A Place Where Youth and Community Thrive
Since our founding, the Mary and Frances Youth Center has supported thousands of young people across Richmond. Our work is grounded in a deep commitment to the community. Whether through after-school programming, leadership training, or policy change, we are building pathways for success together.
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