Youth Alternatives

Youth Alternatives offers after-school programs during the school year from 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm. It also offers a summer food program with a nutritious meal each day from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm during summer vacation from school. Other offerings include summer activities such as fishing, board games, movie day, mini golf, swimming, bingo, scrapbooking, local sporting events, and field trips, as well as Children’s Camp, H.E.L.P., Justus Fellows, Skill Builders, Alt 4 Youth, and HRC.

Programs

• After-School Programs — school-aged children · school year; 3:00 pm-5:30 pm
• Summer Food Program — youth · summer vacation from school; 1:00 pm-2:00 pm · Provides a nutritious meal each day while students are on summer vacation from school.
• Summer Activities — youth of Venango County · during the summer · Activities include fishing, board games, movie day, mini golf, swimming, bingo, scrapbooking, local sporting events, and field trips.
• Children's Camp — 8-15 · Income eligible youth spend a week at Camp Beaumont swimming, fishing, singing, having campfires, and more.
• H.E.L.P. — Help Eridicate Lice Program to prevent the transmission of lice at schools through early detection and treatment.
• Justus Fellows — 9th-12th graders · Collaborative program with local schools to keep students in school through career exploration, college visits, and resume building.
• Skill Builders — students · Boosts student attendance and supports student responsibility by working with students, families, and educators.
• Alt 4 Youth — youth · Provides one on one mentoring, study skills, and independent living skills.
• HRC — children · Health education and resource center for children in Venango County.

At a glance

• Ages: 5–18 years old
• General schedule: During the school year, after-school activities are provided. During the summer, activities are provided for youth of Venango County.

About the provider

Youth Alternatives has been serving youth since 1971. Its mission is "Empowering Youth, Encouraging Better Futures!" Executive Director Corrina Woods leads the program, and the Board of Directors includes Chair Rev. Barry Jenkins, Co-Chair Cindy Woloszyn, Secretary Barbara Hinds, Treasurer Minnie Fink, and board members Megan Hartle, Mark LaBue, and Drew Reinsel.

All programs are FREE to school-aged children that register with Youth Alternatives. Franklin location: 1250 Elk St., Franklin, PA 16323 (basement of First Presbyterian Church). Oil City location: 1 Graff St., Oil City, PA 16301 (Headquarters).

What families say

“My kids come home tired and happy. They love it there and are always telling me about stuff they've learned. Their favorite is the Childrens' Camp, they always make new friends and great memories!” — Parent (4 Years with Youth Alternatives)

Last updated October 22, 2026.