C.A.F.E Summer Programs
This summer, the Community Alliance of the Far Eastside (CAFE) is giving youth on Indianapolis’ far eastside more than a break from school—they’re offering real-world skills, hands-on adventures, and lasting memories. From a Teen Employment Program that builds job-ready skills to a Nature STEM Camp that introduces kids to farm life, CAFE’s programming is designed to educate, inspire, and create lifelong impact. As Associate Director Tiara Nibbs puts it, these experiences aim to “build a legacy within their families.”
As summer approaches on Indianapolis’ far eastside, the Community Alliance of the Far Eastside (CAFE) is once again creating meaningful, hands-on experiences for youth through a dynamic lineup of summer camps designed to educate, inspire, and connect.
From career readiness to outdoor exploration, CAFE’s summer programming offers something for every age group. One of its cornerstone initiatives is the Teen Employment Program, serving youth ages 15–18. Participants spend six weeks developing real-world job skills, earning certifications, and gaining hands-on experience through internships aligned with their interests. “We teach them employability skills… and then they get hands-on learning through careers or hobbies they may want to pursue,” said Tiara Nibbs, CAFE’s Associate Director of Educational Services .
Nibbs brings a strong background in education to her role, having spent more than a decade as a preschool teacher before transitioning into CAFE’s community-based programming. Her experience working directly with children has shaped her passion for creating opportunities that extend learning beyond the classroom and into real-world experiences.
“I’m all about giving experiences that some of the kids may not have had… it builds a legacy within their families.”
— Tiara Nibbs, CAFE’s Associate Director of Educational Services
For younger students, CAFE offers immersive experiences like its Nature STEM Camp in partnership with Broganville Farms. Designed for grades 4–8, the camp introduces kids—many from urban environments—to life on a working farm. From feeding animals to fishing and horseback riding, the experience leaves a lasting impression. “They were excited to be around the animals and be up close and personal… something they don’t normally get,” Nibbs shared .
Additional STEM camps for elementary and middle school students provide hands-on learning through science, technology, and field trips that extend far beyond the classroom. But for CAFE, summer camp is about more than keeping kids busy—it’s about creating lasting impact. “I’m all about giving experiences that some of the kids may not have had… it builds a legacy within their families,” Nibbs said .
Families interested in enrolling their children can find more information by visiting CAFE’s website at cafeindy.org or by checking registration listings on Eventbrite, where camp sign-ups are released in phases. Parents can also contact Tiara Nibbs directly at tiara@cafeindy.org for questions about specific programs and availability .
Through these programs, CAFE continues to strengthen community ties while equipping young people with the tools, confidence, and memories they’ll carry for a lifetime.
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