Experience a Summer of Exploration at The Hardy Center   

Summer Program

At The Hardy Center, our free Summer Program is more than just a way to keep kids active during the break, it's an engaging experience that fosters creativity, personal growth, and hands-on learning!  

Designed for children in the Linden community, our program provides an exciting mix of creative & performing arts, enrichment & skill-building, and STEM exploration to help students thrive academically and socially. 

Creative & Performing Arts 

From stage lights to paintbrushes, our arts programming gives students a stage to express themselves. Whether they’re dancing, acting, singing, or creating visual art, children gain confidence, teamwork skills, and a sense of pride in their unique voice.

  • Through our arts & crafts program, children express themselves through creativity and share their work in community exhibits and Hardy Center displays. 

  • Our performing arts program allows children to shine through drama, dance, and music, fostering teamwork and confidence. The Summer Showcase is a highlight of the year, where students present their performances. 

Enrichment & Skill-Building  

We believe learning doesn’t stop when school lets out. Our enrichment programs build essential life skills—like leadership, communication, and critical thinking—through fun, hands-on activities. Students develop focus, discipline, and real-world readiness that stays with them long after summer ends.

  • More than just a fun activity, unicycling teaches balance, perseverance, and self-confidence. Children ages 5-12 showcase their skills at community events, inspiring others. 

  • In partnership with The Ohio State University Fencing Team, our fencing program introduces students to the exciting world of this Olympic sport. More than just learning footwork and technique, children build discipline, confidence, agility, and focus. Students are engaged through mentorship, physical activity, and a chance to explore a sport that’s both mentally and physically engaging.

  • Our martial arts program teaches discipline, respect, focus, and inner confidence. Through structured instruction and positive reinforcement, students develop both physical coordination and emotional resilience. The program culminates in our Summer Showcase, where participants proudly demonstrate their progress and celebrate their hard work with friends, family, and community.

  • In partnership with the YMCA, our summer swimming program is all about fun, safety, and confidence in the water. Kids learn essential swim skills from floating and kicking to full strokes in a supportive, supervised environment. More than just lessons, it's a chance to cool off, stay active, and make lasting summer memories with friends.

STEM & Hands-On Learning  

Curiosity comes to life in our STEM sessions! Students dive into engaging projects that explore science, technology, engineering, and math in creative, approachable ways. Whether designing with LEGO™, conducting experiments, or solving real-world problems, our students build problem-solving skills and discover just how exciting learning can be.

  • Chess teaches strategy, problem-solving, and patience—helping kids make smarter decisions on the board and in life. 

  • Kids ages 9-13 learn carpentry and basic repair, developing problem-solving skills and exposure to skilled trades. 

  • LEGO™ Learning inspires creativity and innovation by challenging kids to build themed projects that solve real-world problems. 

Nutrition & Gardening Initiatives  

At The Hardy Center, we believe nutrition is essential to learning. That’s why every day includes healthy meals and snacks that keep students energized, focused, and ready to grow. But we don’t stop at the table—we give kids the tools to understand where their food comes from and how to nourish themselves for life.

Growing More Than Food: The Hardy HOPE Garden

Recognized by The Columbus Dispatch as a top community garden, the Hardy HOPE Garden is a lively space where learning takes root—literally!

Students and families work side by side to plant, tend, and harvest fresh produce, while cultivating essential life skills like responsibility, patience, and teamwork. The garden is a source of pride and a symbol of what’s possible when a community comes together.

  • Our award-winning garden teaches children urban agriculture, sustainability, and nutrition—helping them grow fresh produce for their community. 

  • Healthy habits start with understanding where food comes from—and why it matters. Through hands-on activities like gardening, harvesting, and meal planning, students learn the basics of nutrition and the value of balanced meals.

    They’re introduced to new foods, encouraged to make smart choices, and develop lifelong habits that support wellness inside and outside the classroom.

  • Mealtime at The Hardy Center is a learning experience. In addition to receiving free breakfast and lunch each day, students gain practical skills in cooking, kitchen safety, and hygiene.

    From proper handwashing to safely using kitchen tools, our young chefs build confidence and independence in a supportive environment. These lessons help them feel empowered in the kitchen while reinforcing responsibility and self-care.

Get Involved & Support Our Mission

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Get Involved & Support Our Mission ⁎

Be part of something life-changing. Your support helps provide meals, education, and opportunities for kids in need. Donate, volunteer, and make a lasting impact today. 

Stay Connected, Make an Impact!

Our newsletter shares real stories of growth from right here in Linden—highlighting the children we serve, the families we walk alongside, and the programs making a difference every day. You’ll get updates on after-school and summer opportunities, family resources, community events, and ways our supporters are helping build a brighter future for every child. Whether you’re a parent, neighbor, volunteer, or donor—this is your inside look at the impact we’re creating together.