This fall, families in Bismarck are seeing big changes in after-school programs, summer camps, and youth sports options — while the job scene also shifts as top employers evolve. Get the latest on program openings, employer rankings, and what’s trending in 2025 for children and the workforce in the Capital City.
Over the past decade, Bismarck’s growth has fueled demand for robust youth services and dependable careers. The City’s largest employers in recent years have included: the State of North Dakota, Sanford Health, Bismarck Public Schools, Bobcat/Doosan, CHI St. Alexius, U.S. government offices, Bismarck State College, and the City itself.
As population rises and household incomes climb, parents expect more from after-school and summer initiatives — not just care, but enrichment.
After-School Gains Momentum
CREA’s Extended School Program (ESP) is applying for the 2025 21st Century Community Learning Center Grant to expand educational support during non-school hours.
Light of Christ Kids Club (Pre-K to Grade 5) offers afterschool from 3:00–5:30 pm, with summer Kids Club options and occasional wait lists.
Shiloh Christian School’s after-school program is run via CREA; families are directed to CREA for details.
Summer Camps & Day Programs
Activity Centers by Bismarck Parks & Recreation has daily day-camp style summer programming for grades 1–6, June 2 to August 1, 2025, with a fee of ~$600 per child (early registration discount).
Camp Edventure, run by Bismarck Public Schools, offers a free 4-week summer program focused on reading and math, June 2–27. Registration for 2025 was open through March 28.
Bismarck BEST Summer Camp & Afterschool Programs advertise enriched offerings (STEM, field trips, martial arts) — they’ve drawn interest locally for creative options.
North Dakota’s Gateway to Science continues as a hub for STEM camps, exhibits, afterschool clubs, and outreach.
Sports remain central to after-school life. The V.F.W. Sports Center is still a primary venue for hockey, figure skating, curling, and local youth leagues.
Meanwhile, youth baseball, soccer, lacrosse, tennis, and other clubs are active partners with parks and recreation to fill the athletic calendar.
“Registration for Activity Centers is limited; we encourage families to sign up early.”
— Bismarck Parks & Recreation representative (program site info) ( bisparks.org)
As Bismarck’s population grows and expectations rise, after-school programs, summer camps, and youth sports are no longer optional — they’re essential infrastructure for families and child development. The key will be expanding capacity, securing grants like the 21st Century Learning Center funding for CREA, and innovating to keep programs both safe and enriching.
On the employer side, the transition of Bismarck State College into a four-year institution hints at future expansion in education jobs. Healthcare and state government are likely to remain pillars, offering stability for parents and program staff alike.
Families should watch for registration dates (many programs open in early spring or summer) and apply early. Employers and program leaders should coordinate to bridge gaps — for instance, aligning school schedules with youth program hours.
In short: the youth of Bismarck aren’t just being kept busy — they’re being prepared for tomorrow’s workforce, right here in the Capital City.
