A unique aspect in our approach to providing an out-of-school mentoring program is our certified teachers. These teachers implement structured academic learning plans, coordinate field trips and recreational activities, and overall, provide a strong support network for the youth. Maintaining our low student-to-teacher ratio and one-on-one mentoring relationships ensures adequate attention to each youth throughout the school year. Our desire is not just for the youth to improve, but for them to achieve academic excellence and develop strong leadership qualities. Our teachers and volunteer mentors are the driving force behind our mission.

 Character development is emphasized alongside academics. A character development curriculum is implemented daily to teach the youth good citizenship and develop essential core values. The staff and volunteers will utilize a nationwide curriculum called Character First! which gives the youth an understanding of 49 character qualities.

 Health and Wellness instruction is also a key component of the Learning Center program. Healthy eating habits and physical activity are stressed. Nutritious snacks are provided on a daily basis and students participate in physical activity at least four days a week.

A unique aspect in our approach to providing an out-of-school mentoring program is our certified teachers. These teachers implement structured academic learning plans, coordinate field trips and recreational activities, and overall, provide a strong support network for the youth. Maintaining our low student-to-teacher ratio and one-on-one mentoring relationships ensures adequate attention to each youth throughout the school year. Our desire is not just for the youth to improve, but for them to achieve academic excellence and develop strong leadership qualities. Our teachers and volunteer mentors are the driving force behind our mission.

Cultural Competence

Participants in AAYCC’s programs will become individuals who have the skills to recognize and respect the behavior, ideas, attitudes, values, beliefs, customs, language, ceremonies, and practices of different cultures and interact effectively with people of different backgrounds.

 Summer Programs

 When the school year breaks, we offer structured summer activities Monday through Thursday from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.  Hands-on math, economics, science, and social studies are also offered in the afternoons for youth in second grade through high school. Weekly field trips and guest speaker events, known as Fun Fridays, provide experiential learning and give the youth a view of the world beyond their neighborhood which nurtures a vision of their place in the larger community.

Summer Interns work together with our Learning Center staff to provide innovative and engaging learning experiences for our students. We also sponsor an incentive based trip at the end of the summer program. Students must maintain an average of 1.5 (out of a possible 2) behavioral points for the year to qualify for this trip.