The Dedham Youth Commission is pleased to announce the 2026 Zip Trippers program, a free summer opportunity for Dedham residents entering grades 7–10 in Fall 2026. The program offers educational campus tours, community service activities, recreational experiences, and opportunities for teens to learn, explore, and build connections.

Participation in Tuesday and Wednesday activities is required for eligibility for Thursday trips. Students should arrive on time each day; buses depart promptly, and return times may vary. Upon return, students are dismissed immediately, and families are responsible for timely pickup.

Participants must bring snacks, lunch, water, sunscreen, and optional spending money daily. The Dedham Youth Commission is not responsible for personal belongings. Drop-off and pick-up are held at Dedham Town Hall (450 Washington St.) unless otherwise noted.

2026 Zip Trippers Schedule

Week of July 14

• July 14: University of Connecticut Tour, Storrs, CT — 9 AM to 3 PM
• July 15: DYC Veteran’s Brunch, American Legion, 155 Eastern Ave. — 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM
• July 16: Canobie Lake Park, Salem, NH — 9 AM to 5 PM

Week of July 21

• July 21: Salem State University Tour + Explore Salem — 9 AM to 4 PM
• July 22: Volunteer at Wolf Hollow, Ipswich, MA — 9 AM to 3 PM
• July 23: Worcester Red Sox Game, Worcester, MA — 10 AM to 5 PM

Week of July 28

• July 28: MassArt Campus Tour, Boston — 9 AM to 3 PM
• July 29: Disc Golf & Tour, Borderland State Park, Easton — 9:30 AM to 3 PM
• July 30: Indoor Skydiving & Surfing, Nashua, NH — 1 PM to 7 PM

Week of August 4

• August 4: MassBay Community College Tour + Natick Mall Shopping — 9 AM to 3:30 PM
• August 5: Volunteer at Endicott Estate — 9:30 AM to 3 PM
• August 6: Whale Watching, Gloucester, MA — 11 AM to 7 PM

Week of August 11

• August 11: Heritage Museum & Ropes Course, Sandwich, MA — 9 AM to 5 PM
• August 12: Volunteer at Gonzalez Field, 500 High St. — 9:30 AM to 3 PM
• August 13: Water Wizz, East Wareham, MA — 9 AM to 5 PM

Week of August 18

• August 18: Clark University Tour, Worcester, MA — 9:30 AM to 4 PM
• August 19: Cookout & Fun, American Legion, 155 Eastern Ave. — 10 AM to 3 PM
• August 20: Six Flags New England, Agawam, MA — 8 AM to 8 PM

Schedule subject to change.

 

Beyond the Madness

• Free
• All Ages
• Registration Required - Sign up by March 13

Inspired by March Madness, this free bracket challenge uses the excitement of college basketball to help Dedham kids build real life skills: teamwork, confidence, and leadership.

• Teach youth about the excitement and values behind sports through the excitement of March Madness
• Use sports & competition to help navigate real-life challenges
• Encourage healthy competition while supporting teammates and others
• Build confidence, leadership, and resilience skills
• Strengthen social-emotional skills like communication and teamwork
• Spark discussion, reflection, and learning. Through weekly Today’s Takeaways and game highlights
• Create a positive, family-centered community experience
• Family-focused Watch Party in Dedham

Families fill out a bracket, earn weekly bonus points, and compete for prizes.

Contact: GCabral@dedhamma.gov or 781-751-9190

Download the program flyer PDF

Youth Troopers

• Youth ages 8 to 11 years old
• Thursday’s March 26 to May 7, 2026, from 4 PM to 5 PM
• Capen School Gymnasium, 310 Sprague Street, Dedham
• Register online: https://forms.office.com/g/1zCCDEWFtd
• Led by DYC Youth Coordinator Greg Cabral and VSO Joe Hamilton

About the Program

Through engaging military-style activities, games, and team challenges, Youth Troopers is designed to help young people be the best they can be. Each Thursday, participants will take part in physical exercises, team-building missions, and thought-provoking discussions that strengthen self-confidence, pride, and community spirit. Activities will include Medal of Honor lessons, physical challenges, and reflective conversations that promote leadership and character.

This unique program helps youth build healthy routines, develop respect for themselves and others, and practice tolerance by working together toward shared goals. It is an empowering way to encourage discipline, teamwork, and personal growth in a supportive and fun environment.

Download the program flyer PDF

Contact Info

For more info contact Greg Cabral: gcabral@dedhamma.gov or 781-751-9192

Looking for a place to relax after school? Come hang out in a space made just for teens chill music, cozy vibes, video games, puzzles, a reading nook, and plenty of room to just kick back with friends.

• When: Wednesdays after school 
• Time: 2:30 PM to 7:00 PM
• Location: DYC Office (4th Floor Town Hall; call us or buzz in to let us know you're here!)

At "The Spot", you can:

• read in a cozy spot
• learn ping pong
• make friendship bracelets
• get early notice for DYC events & trips
• build your community
• enjoy activities
• get homework help
• play video games

We invite all interested 4th to 7th graders to join us for an exciting series of card trading and sharing sessions. These Card Club meet ups will focus on major sports cards, Magic the Gathering, and Pokémon, and is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow collectors.

If you want to join us, meet us at the Dedham High School Main Entrance at 3:40 PM, with pick-up at 4:45 PM on Mondays this spring: 

• March 31

• April 14 and 28

• May 12

• June 2

 We can’t wait to see you—bring your favorite cards and be ready to trade! Registration is required (and must sign a waiver)

Tom Clinton proudly served as the Director of the DYC for over 40 years. In his honor, this annual community competition encourages teams of youth to develop and facilitate community service projects that are original, creative and have a big impact on the Dedham community. 

Organized by Ripples of Hope, the Turkey Trot is a family-oriented gratitude event that takes place annually on Thanksgiving morning in Dedham. Each year, we gather for a morning of joy, gratitude, and movement with the greater Dedham community. Through the trot, we raise funds for Dedham Food Pantry, Dedham Youth Commission, and local Ripples Initiatives.

For decades, the DYC has assisted families in need during the Thanksgiving and Christmas Holiday seasons. Through our numerous charity events (“Rocking the Stocking”) and partnerships with community organizations, we are able to assist hundreds of family with turkey baskets, gifts, clothing and toys on a yearly basis. The DYC works with the Dedham Housing Authority and other community partners to identify families in need. Families may seek assistance directly from the DYC. 

New session information will be added when finalized!

The Dedham Youth Commission hosts a Summer Internship Program, designed exclusively for local high school students aged 14 to 19. Aimed at providing practical work experience, this five-week program not only offers a unique opportunity for students to earn while they learn but also encourages local businesses to step forward as mentors and leaders in shaping young minds.