Wisconsin Youth Company

Target demographics: children, families, and communities thrive.

Direct beneficiaries per year: 1,800 children in Dane and Waukesha Counties

Geographic areas served: out of school time programs that help children thrive beyond the school day!

Programs: Wisconsin youth company provides year round out-of-school time programming for elementary students in school districts in dane and waukesha counties. Programs are conveniently located in the school and summer programs are either all day programs or coordinate with summer school times. Because these are licensed programs eligible families may qualify for city or county funding. Programs are plannend specifically for elementary age children and include physical activity and outdoor play, time for individual choice, snack, and engaging projects. Each year over 2,700 children participate in these programs.

wyc operates two neighborhood centers on madison's southwest side. Through the work of the centers, wyc helps these neighborhoods to grow in capacity. Elver park neighborhood center (epnc) provides a licensed and city-accredited k-5 after school and all day summer program. In addition, there is a year round program for middle and high school students. The theresa terrace neighborhood center was opened in 2015 and the focus is on services for elementary children and adult employment. Both centers are partially funded by the city of madison and the epnc also receives some funding from the county.

middle school u is a summer program that offers courses for middle school age students allowing them to pursue their hobbies and interests in a small group setting. Middle school u provides a combination of enrichment courses and recreational programs providing a fun and rewarding summer. Courses and activities are designed for the growing independence of the middle school student. Over 350 youth participate annually.

a variety of programs are included under the enrichment program category. World language is a language immersion program offered at a variety of schools in dane county for grades k-5. Wander wisconsin is a summer travel club and outdoor adventure program for grades 3-5. In addition, immersion day camps are offered that provide focused, skill-building opportunities in the areas of circus performing arts, theater, and world languages. In 2016, wisconsin youth company also sponsored and organized the celebrating youth! Stage at kids expo in madison. This is an opportunity for young singers, dancers, actors, musicians, and spoken word artists to perform to a large audience. Each year over 100 children participate in these programs.