Parks and Rec launches Camp VIBE for teens

(June 23, 2026) Davenport Parks and Recreation is creating a unique place for young people to spend their summer making new friends and getting more involved in their community. Camp VIBE is designed specifically for students between 12 and 15 years old who have aged out of many traditional summer recreation programs. Camp VIBE meets four days a week, Monday-Thursday, at Roosevelt Community Center.

VIBE stands for Values, Intuition, Balance, and Empowerment, reflecting the program's focus on helping teens grow both socially and emotionally in a safe environment, while having fun throughout the summer. Participants help shape the experience by planning their own field trips and volunteer opportunities. They've already painted affirmation rocks to place in parks, planted flowers at Roosevelt Community Center, and visited a local trampoline park. Weekly programming also includes trips to Davenport pools, skill-building activity days, and interactive group experiences designed to encourage independence and teamwork.

On Tuesday through Thursday, Camp VIBE hosts dedicated youth mental health-focused activities, where specially trained AmeriCorps Youth Mental Health Corps members lead activities on conflict resolution, emotional wellness, stress management, and positive coping skills. The program is supported through a partnership with AmeriCorps.

"Camp VIBE fills an important gap in our community for middle-school-aged students who are often too old for many traditional summer programs but still benefit greatly from structured activities," said Becca Niles, Interim Parks Director. "Camp VIBE gives teens a safe, supervised place to spend their summer with the independence to decide how they spend their time."

Camp VIBE aligns with the Davenport City Council's goals to expand family-friendly programming in the city and increase community engagement among young people. Camp VIBE continues through July 31, 2026.