In October 2000, the former day care board called together a group of people to present possibilities for a new program of outreach. After much discussion the group decided to target elementary school age children because of the need in the community.
It was decided to do more than fun after-school activities. The group surveyed the elementary school parents through a poll of needs, to gauge the need for what was proposed: an after-school program aimed at tutoring and homework. The program would begin with a three-day week, 3:30-5:30, on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and would include kindergarten through fifth grade children. The response from parents was positive, so the program was born.
The program utilizes volunteers from the church to tutor the children and be sure that their homework assignments were completed. At the beginning of each session, the children are served a snack furnished by volunteers. At the end, there is be time for play. Several special events involving the parents are planned throughout the year, the last being a stew supper and health fair.
A director was hired to coordinate the program. That person was Michelle Stevens, whose husband was pastor of First Assembly of God Church in DeLeon. |
