In response to the Ely Public Schools’ decision to move to a four day school week, Ely Community Resource brought together a wide range of local organizations and community members to explore how we could support our youth in making the most of this additional day out of school. From those conversations, The Friday Network was created.
We are fortunate to have an incredible network of partners who already collaborate to offer meaningful enrichment opportunities for youth, families, and community members.
The talent, creativity, and genuine care within this community are remarkable.
In a time when uncertainty can feel overwhelming, the willingness of so many groups to come together is truly inspiring.
This spring, ECR’s Ely Youth Alliance Club, created a survey which 200 students in grades 6-11 participated in during the Mental Health Fair hosted by Ely Youth in Action (YIA) and the Ely Key Club. Their feedback helped shape the programs you’ll see offered on Fridays. The poster we’ve shared provides an overview of youth programming planned for this fall.
This is just the beginning, please watch for updates as more Ely organizations continue to add enrichment opportunities throughout the year.
A separate registration link for spring will be shared later, allowing programs time to evaluate, adjust, and make room for additional organizations or businesses, such as those interested in offering job shadowing or hands on learning opportunities.
Those interested, please contact jill@elycommunityresource. org.
We are proud of the strong web of support made possible by our dedicated community partners. As we prepare for the fall session, space is limited, so we encourage anyone interested to register early. Your registration helps us plan effectively and ensure we’re meeting the needs of Ely families.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every organization and individual who came to the table to make this possible: Ely Community Resource, Camp Widjiwagan Outdoor Programs, Ely Adventure School, The Ely Public Library, The Ely Folk School, University of Minnesota 4 H Program, Friends of the Boundary Waters – No Boundaries to the Boundary Waters Program, NLAA, Reflections Dance Company, Ely Community Center, Ely Indivisible, Ely Young Life (open gym if one should become available), Mayhem Mending, Voyageur Outward Bound School (VOBS), AAUW and our local churches.
Thank you also to: The City of Ely for valuable programming space, The North American Bear Center, The International Wolf Center, The Dorothy Molter Museum, The Ely Field Naturalists and The Ely Historic State Theater CinemaKidz Program for their continued partnership!
Most programs are free or have a minimal cost. If you would like to support The Friday Network—helping cover rental space, snacks, lunches, transportation, and program supplies, your contribution would be deeply appreciated and directly benefit Ely youth.
To contribute to a specific program please see the contact information on the Friday Network Poster.
Thank you, Ely!
