City Youth Matrix is a local nonprofit that removes barriers so children can experience the wealth of enrichment opportunities that Frederick provides.

We guide our families through the process of selecting and registering for activities by helping them navigate the process from start to finish. We also provide help with activity fees and transportation to programs so families are empowered to access a diverse variety of extracurricular activities for their children.

Our Approach

There are three barriers that often prevent families from registering their children for recreational programs, lessons, or camps: financial hurdles, transportation difficulties, and cultural differences. Some families face all three barriers, while others just one.

We first connect a family with their own family liaison who conducts a needs assessment.

  • What are the child’s interests?

  • Can the family afford activity fees?

  • Does the family have dependable transportation after school and on the weekends?

  • Does the family need translation services?

The answers to these and other questions help City Youth Matrix and the family shape an action plan for registration, payment, and transportation.

The liaisons also discuss the requirements to qualify for our program: necessary paperwork, a signed parent agreement, and a commitment to attend four Parent Empowerment Dinners. City Youth Matrix believes that for youth to thrive, it takes a strong network of individuals—a matrix within the community—working together. Actively engaged parents are central to success!

Our liaisons connect with families every other week and form a trusted relationship. It is not only the children who are exposed to new experiences: Parents and guardians set timelines to meet registration deadlines, budget for fees, research what a martial arts or cooking class involves, and meet other parents in a new community. It can often be overwhelming and intimidating. Our liaisons play a pivotal role by providing both the technical and emotional support needed for a successful experience for both the child and the family.