Programs: Recreational/youth development program: this program focuses on school-aged at risk children. After-school and summer activities are designed to help young people make positive choices and avoid the inner-city pitfalls of gangs, violence, drug and alcohol abuse, teen pregnancy and dropping out of school. Through a wide variety of age-appropriate programs, at-risk children are encouraged to use their free time constructively and engage in safe play. They learn such life skills as teamwork, commitment, discipline, sportsmanship and respect. Their relationships with staff and volunteers are key to the program's success. Ultimately, the children and youth gain self-confidence while experiencing what it means to be winners in life. Structured classes and activities are offered in thirteen core program areas for two age groups: 8-11 year olds and 12-18 year olds. The program areas include: arts, crafts, music, drama, outdoor recreation, camping, sports and games, self-directed play, leadership development, hobbies, clubs and special events. Typical attendance during the school year varies from 80-100 a day, during the summer 100-120 a day. 22,745 visits
family services & counseling program: this program offers at-risk families the opportunity to discover long-term solutions to difficult problems. Programs are designed to be pro-active, preventive and educational. Our goals are to guide families toward self-sufficiency and make profound differences in their quality of life. A strong emphasis is placed on helping families break the cycle of poverty by offering intensive case-management services that help move them from instability to stable, healthy family environments. Counseling services include: individual youth behavioral counseling, family & marriage counseling, group support programs, life skills & social development for youth (boys & girls club). At-risk, inner city families receive free counseling services. The counseling staff also assists other cabbage patch staff in determining effective behavioral intervention strategies for troubled children who exhibit disruptive behaviors. The primary goal of our counseling program is to teach our youth how to make positive choices when faced with difficult life circumstances. Family services highlights include providing christmas baskets (food and gifts) to over 70 families and back-to-school supplies to over 160 children. 2,348 visits
educational opportunities: well-qualified teachers, interns and many volunteers work daily with dozens of students. The primary goal of this program is to help students academically achieve their highest potential level. Many of our participants come from homes where education attainment levels are low. Many of the children we serve are capable of academic success, but are hampered by various barriers. We know that education is one of the best ways to break the cycle of multi-generational poverty and we are committed to ensuring students are given the opportunities to succeed and excel. Core programs for students grades 1-12 include: tutoring, supervised study hall (homework helper), reading and math readiness classes, computer lab and summer enrichment program. The college scholars program is designed to provide support to capable, motivated youth who desire a higher education but are limited by family hardships. For the academic year ending may 2017, partial college scholarships totaling $66,430 were awarded to 36 qualified at-risk students. Our typical scholarships range from $1,000 to $4,000 per year. Staff members closely monitor student's progress. We have a "never give up" attitude with each student. It is our long-held belief that education changes lives and that it is the key to moving families from poverty to productivity. 8,804 visits
