The S.C.C.O.R.E. summer program wrapped up recently with feature day that spotlighted talented local youth, what they learned, and how they grew during the program. The six week program was possible thanks to funding from the donor-advised James C. Acheson Fund.

“Our youth and parents expressed gratitude for having a safe, supportive space, within walking distance or nearby transportation services, for their children and themselves to receive tutoring and social-emotional support,” said Kim Brown, founder of S.C.C.O.R.E. 

About 40 students and their families participated in the summer program that focused on academic enrichment (recouping from a year with learning loss), health and wellness education, spiritual growth, positive mentorship, exposure to cooking skills, time for arts/crafts, and fun activities that supported students’ development. This was the third summer of running this successful program. 

During the last day of the program, called feature day, the youth and parents alike shared their experiences. All participants were thankful for a safe space to share, learn and play. One mother shared that her son, who is in middle school, would stay up late playing video games and typically wanted to sleep in, but that changed with the S.C.C.O.R.E. summer program because he never wanted to miss out and was always up and ready to go.

Another child in the program asked their grandparent if they could go to the splash pad together later in the day after the S.C.C.O.R.E. program was over versus having to miss the program.

As part of the youth’s daily routines, they focused on tutoring for math and reading. One student said he finally understood algebra after working with Mr. Christmas, one of the summer program tutors.

Another big part of the program for the youth was social-emotional learning, getting tools for conflict resolution, as well as team and character building activities. It was important to Brown that the youth have the opportunity to gain more self-esteem, find ways to reduce anxiety and cope with depression, as well as have consistent positive social interactions in a supportive environment.

The youth who participated in S.C.C.O.R.E.’s summer program are now better equipped to begin their school year on a positive note with the skills they learned or developed further, and with the support of the relationships they built.

The James C. Acheson Fund provided the summer program support through their donor advised fund (DAF) at the Community Foundation. A DAF allows donors to recommend grants to nonprofits, programs and services that they wish to support. The Community Foundation works closely with donors to identify opportunities for granting locally and wherever a donor may wish to give. Learn more about DAFs here.