Durham launches modified in-person summer camps

Durham Parks and Recreation launched a modified version of its summer camp for kids ages 6 to 12 and 13 to 17 this week.

The 2020 Summer Connect Program is offered weekdays through Aug. 7 from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., depending on where the program is located.

"The goal of the program is to provide participants with a meaningful social experience in a fun and safe setting," according to a press release.

Durham is taking a variety of safety precautions as it reopens its camps, including modifying activities, increasing cleaning of the equipment and surfaces and limiting the number of participants to nine children per group. 

Because of space limits, participants must apply for programs through a lottery. Applications must be received on or before the specified deadline for each program week.

According to the website, here's how signups work:

Participants will be selected each week and will be notified by email and phone if chosen. Registrants must pay the Summer Connect Program in full within 48 hours of the selection to secure a spot. Spaces for each location will be filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Only one lottery application per family is allowed; however, if a parent/guardian includes a request for the number of children in their household, all of them will be placed in the program space permitting.  

Participants not selected will be placed on a waiting list, and if a space becomes available, DPR will contact the person next in line. Once contacted, they must register and pay in full on the same day.  

More information is on Durham's website.