Keep Calm and “G.R.A.B.” Some Summer Fun

Making the most of an unprecedented summer

By Kayla Ellenwood and Jan Cox, City of Greenville Parks & Recreation

Like many departments across the country, we were met with a new challenge of delivering safe programming during the COVID-19 pandemic. Traditionally, hundreds of children would descend into our five community centers for summer camp. However, with the pandemic shutting our doors, staff members made it their mission to put together fun, creative and educational content and programs to make summer a fun and active time while at home. One program was the Greenville Recreation Activity Box (G.R.A.B.). With nine different themed boxes, we were able to provide over two

months’ worth of fun, creative, and educational activities to keep children, ages 5-12, engaged all summer long. Each week, boxes were packed with 10 activities such as art, STEM, games and more with supplies enough for two children and stepby-step directions. Activity boxes were purchased online for $15 per box and families were given weekly times and locations for pick up. Promotion for the boxes was done through our social media pages and website. A few local media outlets partnered with us to help promote the program as well.

With nine different themed boxes, we were able to provide over two months’ worth of fun, creative, and educational activities to keep children, ages 5-12, engaged all summer long.