Akron Urban League Summer Camp Students Experience the Excitement of Soap Box Derby

June 24, 2026

Two Women in Light Blue Shirts Chat and Smile at a Table During a Community Event, with a Young Girl with Braided Hair Nearby. Group of Kids Sitting on Wooden Bleachers Outdoors at an Event, Smiling and Chatting Under a Bright Sky, with a Metal Pillar in the Middle and Greenery in the Background. Person Wearing a Helmet and Orange-tinted Sunglasses Sits in a Gray Soapbox Derby Car, with Bright Orange Barriers Behind Them and Aaa Branding on the Car. " Group of Teens with a Dog Mascot Posing for a Photo at a Soapbox Derby Summer Camp Event, Each Holding Goodie Bags.  Children on an Outdoor Stage Celebrate As One Girl Raises a Trophy High with Friends Applauding Nearby, Sunny Green Park in Background.  Two Smiling Young Athletes Pose with Trophies After a Competition, Medals Around Their Necks, in Front of Wall of Framed Portraits Under a Bright Neon Sign. Logo Reads Akron Urban League 100 at Corner. 

This summer, Akron Urban League Summer Camp students enjoyed an unforgettable experience with the legendary International Soap Box Derby, where they explored the history, science, engineering, and creativity behind one of Akron's most iconic traditions.

Throughout the program, campers participated in hands-on activities that challenged them to think critically, work collaboratively, and put their creativity to the test. Students designed and built their own miniature Soap Box Derby cars, learning firsthand about design principles, problem-solving, and the importance of teamwork.
The excitement continued as campers raced their creations on the track, testing their designs in a fun and friendly competition. The highlight of the experience came when students had the opportunity to race actual Soap Box Derby cars, giving them a true taste of the thrill and excitement that has made the Derby a beloved tradition for generations.

Beyond the races, the experience helped students develop valuable STEM skills while building confidence, sportsmanship, and lasting memories. From start to finish, the program was filled with learning, laughter, and inspiration.
We extend our sincere gratitude to International Soap Box Derby for providing such an incredible opportunity for our youth. Experiences like these help spark curiosity, encourage innovation, and show our students what is possible when creativity and determination come together.

We look forward to seeing where their imagination and newfound skills take them next! 🏁🚗💨

Man in Maroon Polo Explains a Small Model Launch Ramp to Two Boys While Others Watch at a Community Science Event.

 

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Woman and three children gathered around a table, focused on an activity with a white box.