By: Kristine Uyeda, Youth Development Resource Center
How do you take a proven youth literacy program into a digital platform and make it equitable, impactful, and sustainable?
Over the course of the school year, Center for Success provides structured after school programming for elementary and middle school students. Youth have access to transportation from partner schools, nourishing meals, high-quality enrichment activities, and participate in one-on-one individualized literacy mentoring designed for each youth’s unique needs. In addition to their onsite programs in Detroit and Pontiac, Center for Success also supports youth at five Brilliant Detroit locations and the Downtown Boxing Gym.
Andrea Meyer, executive director at Center for Success, had never been in a leadership role where she faced the kinds of decisions that now confronted the organization in the wake of COVID-19. Their commitment to the families they served remained steadfast. So, they went to work on creating a new path forward.
While the location looks different, Center for Success still offers youth the opportunity for fun, engaging learning activities at home.
Their online learning programming is anchored by two beliefs: that learning can happen anywhere and that they were going to model what it looks like to be a lifelong learner. Center for Success offers a wealth of programming options—from literacy to science to fitness—all posted to their Facebook page and available at no cost.
Want to know more?
Center for Success unites literacy and community to empower students in the journey of education.
To learn more about Center for Success or to support their work through volunteering or donations, visit their website, and follow them on Facebook or Instagram.
Our thanks to Center for Success team members: Andrea Meyer, Executive Director, Anna Rosevear, Program Director, and Melanie Wiggins, Lead Literacy Instructor, for taking the time to share their experiences with us.
