Springtime in Orange County ushers in a vibrant array of youth sports, community service initiatives, and environmental activities, reflecting the region’s commitment to fostering engaged and active citizens.
At a Glance
- Youth sports leagues, including Little League and lacrosse, commence their spring seasons
- April marks National Autism Awareness Month and National Child Abuse Prevention Month
- High school students participate in Youth in Government Day, gaining insights into public service
- The Orange County Career Center hosts a job fair on April 10, connecting job seekers with local employers
- Trout fishing season opens, offering recreational opportunities for anglers
Youth Sports Kick Off
As spring unfolds, Orange County’s youth eagerly take to the fields for the start of Little League baseball and lacrosse seasons. The YMCA continues to offer a variety of youth sports programs that emphasize character development, teamwork, and leadership. Pre-K classes promote essential values like caring and respect, while leagues for ages 6 to 14 help build confidence and resilience through structured play.
Watch the YMCA’s video on youth sports programs and values.
The Junior Magic Youth Basketball League is also launching this season. Registration is open for children ages 7–17, with Saturday games scheduled from late May through July. These programs, held at venues such as the West Orange Recreation Center, aim to instill life skills and discipline through recreational competition.
Community Engagement and Awareness
April also serves as a platform for several public service campaigns in Orange County. Buildings and landmarks across the region glow blue in honor of National Autism Awareness Month, and community events, such as the Autism Awareness Walk-A-Thon, promote inclusivity and understanding of neurodiverse individuals. Local initiatives like “Think Differently” continue to advocate for acceptance and accessibility.
Simultaneously, National Child Abuse Prevention Month brings a renewed focus on protecting the most vulnerable. Schools, social services, and civic groups join forces to educate families and prevent harm through awareness and outreach programs.
Youth in Government Day is another hallmark of April, providing local high school students with a firsthand look at civic leadership. Inspired by SUNY Orange Bridges students, this event enables teens to shadow county officials and explore careers in public service.
Opportunities for Growth
Employment is also on the agenda this spring. SUNY Orange’s Kaplan Hall will host a job fair on April 10, with over 20 employers participating. Organized by the Orange County Career Center, the event provides networking opportunities for job seekers and promotes career readiness in a changing workforce.
Outdoors, trout season is in full swing across New York State. Local waterways have been stocked by the Department of Environmental Conservation to enhance recreational fishing, a favorite pastime in the region. Residents are encouraged to follow sustainable catch-and-release practices, aligning with broader conservation goals.
From the baseball diamond to civic halls and fishing streams, Orange County is buzzing with opportunities that reinforce community values, outdoor wellness, and social responsibility.
