The hours immediately following school can be the riskiest for inner-city children. But a new afterschool program in Northwest Akron offers a safe and productive place for these students, many of whom are at a vulnerable age for negative influences in their neighborhoods.
The iStrive initiative offers help with homework and a safe place for creativity and self-esteem to develop for children between the ages of 8 and 13. The free program helps divert children from otherwise risky behavior, and is a partnership among the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Western Reserve, the Woodland United Methodist Church and the Northwest Akron Block Watch.
Children in this part of the city don’t have many positive options for afterschool activities, said Jack Evans, director of operations for Boys & Girls Clubs of the Western Reserve. “iStrive is a safe place for students to go after school rather than lingering on the streets where trouble and danger can await.”
More than 20 children took part in the inaugural fall session late last year, said Evans. The next session began Jan. 10 and runs through March 17, and 60 spots are available.
In addition to getting help with homework, participants also receive free snacks and programming that focuses on academic success, character, leadership and healthy lifestyles.
Those who took part last fall are eager to begin a new session, added Evans.
The partnering groups all help provide a unique experience for these at-risk children.
“The Woodland United Methodist Church provides the facility for iStrive programming,” said Evans. “Rev. Debbie Gibbons and her staff provided excellent support and assistance in setting up the program area and provide ongoing program delivery assistance. The Northwest Akron Block Watch Association provided the community input and baseline grant funding information structure for the project. The Association was instrumental in bringing Akron business and community leaders together to support the iStrive project. Councilman Jeff Fusco and Councilwoman Sandra Kurt are strong supporters and render tireless efforts in promoting and sustaining the iStrive project.”
The program is free, and an open house is scheduled for Jan. 15, from 3 to 5 p.m., at the Woodland united Methodist Church, 444 N. Hawkins Ave., in Akron.
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Western Reserve is in need of donors and volunteers. To find out more, visit www.bgcsummitcounty.org.
