Our Mission
COA Youth & Family Centers helps children, supports families, and strengthens communities. We provide early childhood education for kids ages 0–5, youth programs for ages 6–18, and resources for families at our two family resource centers. Our programs give families fair and easy access to the support they need—like learning, care, and community help—so they can grow, stay strong, and succeed together.
Our five-star, NAEYC-accredited Early Education Centers offer high-quality early learning where kids build social, emotional, and thinking skills through play and guided activities. With trusted teachers and a strong focus on early childhood education, we give every child the tools they need to succeed.
This program helps children from 6 weeks to age 5 grow, learn, and get ready for school in safe, caring, and fun environments.
Gives Milwaukee youth a safe place to learn, grow, and succeed. Through fun and educational activities, we help students build strong academic skills, gain confidence, and develop as leaders.
Our programs support personal growth and school success, all in a positive and welcoming environment where every young person is valued.
At COA, we believe the best way to help a community is to listen.
We focus on neighborhoods so we can understand what people need and what they hope for. By working closely with local families and using neighborhood resources, we can quickly give support where it’s needed most.
Community Impact
Since 1906 COA Youth & Family Centers has had a positive impact on over 8,000 Milwaukee children and families. For over a century our camp has provided hundreds of Milwaukee youth with transformative experiences. Through collaboration with other community-based organizations, corporations and foundations, we can fulfill our mission to build strong and resilient communities – one child, one family, one community at a time.
Children and families served
every year at COA!
Of COA’s Early Education Center children
increased their motor skills!
Visits to COA’s Food Pantry in the
Amani Neighborhood
Youth participated in COA’s after school
Community Learning Center program
Children registered in COA’s
Early Education Center programs.
Virtual home visits to families in COA’s
HIPPY home instruction program.
