AYCC After School Program Students Explore STEAM Opportunities at the University of Maine

Waterville, ME – March 13 – Students from the After School Program at the Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC) recently had the opportunity to visit the campus of the University of Maine at Orono (UMO), where they explored hands-on learning opportunities and gained an inspiring glimpse into the world of higher education and STEAM careers.

The visit, organized in partnership with UMO, introduced local youth to the possibilities that await them just beyond their hometown. During the trip, students toured campus spaces, engaged with university representatives, and learned about academic pathways in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

AYCC Director of Childcare Services, DJ Adams shared that the experience left a lasting impression on both students and families.

“You’ve made a mark on a number of young minds, and we cannot thank you enough for sharing these experiences with our youth,” Adams said. “Both the youth and staff had an incredible time, and I have been hearing wonderful feedback. Several parents stopped me the next morning to share how much their children talked about the experience – far beyond the usual ‘my day was fine.’”

For many students, the trip made higher education feel more tangible and accessible. One student, an aspiring scientist, was especially excited after discovering that world-class opportunities in science and research are within reach. “It was truly magical for her to realize that such amazing opportunities are just a long bus ride away,” Adams shared.

“Bringing students to campus and exposing them to all that they can do is core to our mission and values,” said Taylor Ward, UMO’s Director of Outreach and Engagement. “It’s really a personal mission to make sure students feel prepared and confident to know they have so many opportunities.”

Experiences like this are a key part of the AYCC’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities for youth across the Waterville region. Through partnerships with institutions like the University of Maine, the organization aims to spark curiosity, build confidence, and inspire the next generation of scientists, innovators, and community leaders.

The AYCC is proud to provide programs that connect young people with real-world learning opportunities, helping them envision bright futures and discover pathways to achieve their goals.

The Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC) is a leading nonprofit community center in Waterville, Maine, dedicated to strengthening youth, families, and the greater community through impactful programs in youth development, health and wellness, education, and recreation. As the only fully merged Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCA in the world, the AYCC uniquely combines the missions and resources of both movements to deliver innovative programs that empower young people, support families, and foster life-long well-being. Serving thousands of individuals each year, the AYCC provides a welcoming, inclusive hub where children, teens, and adults can learn, grow, stay active, and build meaningful community connections.

DJ Adams, Director of Childcare Services

Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCA of Greater Waterville at the

Alfond Youth & Community Center

207-873-0684 | dadams@clubaycc.org | www.clubaycc.org

###