YOUR FAMILY

Having Donuts with Dad!

This spring, some kids at Wheatley Elementary School started the day with a little extra love and support. With the help of the Network, monthly Donuts with Dad and Muffins with Mom events began on March 24th. The monthly events create a space for families to connect to each other, to resources and opportunities.

Making Connections team members and Wheatley Elementary School staff are there to listen and learn what families want and need. But “what they really want,” says Kris Rogers, Network Organizer ”is just to be there with their kids.”

In the last three months, “moms” and “dads” have come by Wheatley for special time with their kids along with , grandparents, foster parents, step-parents and other important adults. All this promotes a community where more adults are involved in the school community and in education.

That’s important because kids whose families are involved are more likely to earn higher grades, enjoy school, avoid discipline problems and graduate and go to college! What’s more, says Kris, “You can just see the kids glowing.”

Next up for kids at Wheatley is the Summer Reading Academy, July 12 – August 6. This free summer institute for children entering grades 1 - 4 runs from 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM and is designed to increase reading proficiency.  For more information, please contact Kris at 618-5978.

Marcellus Love, teaches younger people how to dance in a Change Maker project at the Presbyterian Community Center.

Young People Engaged in Community Change, or Change Makers, is a program at the Presbyterian Community Center that seeks to involve young adults in an environment of Educational Attainment, Career Exposure, Leadership Training and Mentoring.

The participants will have access to six different areas that correspond to their interests and career goals. Those are:

1. Health and Wellness - Potential CNA program through The Harambee Nursing Center
2. Creative Arts such as dance and graphic design
3. Computer technology and Repair
4. Videography
5. Safety
6. Building and Architecture

Participants will also be involved in a leadership program that involves mentoring younger students and community service activities in the neighborhood. It's one way to learn more about what you like and give back to the community in ways that you want.  For more information about PCC and ChangeMakers, please call 584-0201.