How can our Northland communities inspire children to explore their surroundings, enjoy outdoor activities and even strengthen connections in our neighborhoods?

A new initiative in the Proctor-Hermantown area aims to do all that and more this summer with something called driving opportunities focusing on recreational adventures, or DORA for short.

Thursday afternoon the Proctor-Hermantown community education group launched the new summer program to bring engaging experiences to area families. Kaitlyn Koehler says a dedicated team will visit local parks and playgrounds this summer bringing age-appropriate activities and educational experiences.

“It’s a mobile. So we built shelving in with bins, with all bungee cords, so it is basically a mobile program vehicle that we can take everywhere. We have pencils, pens, paint, arts and crafts. We have inflatables. We have water balloons. We have hoses. We have flag football. Basically, anything that you can think of, you can have for your child in the summer.”

To encourage wide spread involvement it’s meant to be affordable at just $3 per child, $5 per family, or $20 for a family punch card for 10 sessions. Another free kick off event like todays is scheduled for next Tuesday, June 3rd from 3:45 to 5:45 at the Hermantown community learning center. Click here for details.