What We Do

Children experiencing homelessness are at risk of falling 3 to 6 months behind in school with every move. At HOPES, we provide the necessary interventions to help students reach their full potential.

PROGRAM

After School Program

Our original after-school program provides direct academic support and relationships with caring volunteers for children in grades K-5th who are experiencing homelessness. Our diverse, trauma-informed curriculum focuses on literacy as the foundation of school success, with inspiring enrichment in Social Emotional Learning and STEAM to build a lifelong love of learning.

Our Daily Approach

Summer Enrichment Program

Our summer enrichment program includes all the dedicated support of our after-school program, but with added enrichment opportunities to provide meaningful learning experiences while students are not in school. By providing direct academic support to students living in shelters, we are helping to prevent ‘summer slide’ and ensure that students are ready to begin their next school year strong.

Homework Help (40 minutes)

Volunteers work with students one-on-one or in small groups to make sure they have the resources and support needed to complete their homework. They help students organize their thoughts, manage their time, and provide lots of encouragement along the way!

​Literacy Support (20 minutes)

At the beginning of each program semester, students are assessed to determine their reading levels and areas in which they are struggling. Each day, when students have completed their homework, volunteers provide additional literacy support at the student's level. This may come in the form of an educational game or just simply reading a book together!

​Cultural and Academic Enrichment (25 minutes)

Each day, students participate in a short activity designed to provide them with additional cultural and academic experiences. The activities vary from day-to-day and include lessons in art, science, creative writing, coding, music, zoology, robotics, dance and movement, mindfulness, cooking, and more!

Parent Program

Each month, Chicago HOPES for Kids offers programming at the shelters for the parents of our students. Each session is slightly different, based on the needs and interests of the parents. Topics include: McKinney-Vento & the educational rights of children experiencing homelessness, enrolling your children in school, the IEP process, the importance of reading with your child, how to help your student with their homework, etc. Sessions are provided by HOPES staff and partners, including the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless. It is our hope that our parent programming will help make our work sustainable after the families have left the shelters. 

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Literacy Leaders Program

Our Literacy Leaders program focuses on building academic confidence and developing a passion for reading for students grades 6th-8th. Students have opportunities to build their literacy skills in 1:1 and small group settings, while discussing relevant social issues and engaging with learning experiences in STEM and the arts.