Our K-5 after-school program provides a diverse, trauma-informed curriculum focused on literacy as the foundation of educational success. Our reading assessments allow us to curate individualized reading support for each child and inform our staff and volunteers in providing additional literacy support at each student’s level—whether that be playing an educational game or reading a book together. Our students also develop stabilizing relationships with our team who guide them with additional inspiring enrichment in social-emotional learning and STEAM to build a lifelong confidence and a love of learning.

Our programs are designed to encourage more than just academic success; we want to build confidence and empower our students with a passion and curiosity for reading and learning. Our Literacy Leaders program focuses on students in grades 6–9 and further cultivates their literacy skills in one-on-ones or small group settings with our volunteers. They discuss relevant social issues and engage with learning experiences in STEAM through workshops and field trips.

With the dedicated support of our staff and volunteers, we continue to engage our students in literacy and enrichment opportunities to provide inspiring learning experiences aiding in students' continued academic growth. Activities vary and include lessons in art, science, creative writing, coding, music and more. By providing direct academic support, we help close the educational gap children experiencing homelessness face and ensure their continued success.

The work doesn’t end with our students! Family Connection supports families through our enrichment programs, including field trips, family-fun night events, and on-site caregiver workshops. We stay in communication with our families via our family newsletter and text alerts with information about FREE resources and city-wide events available to you and your family! In every aspect of our work, we discuss the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, which protects the educational rights of children experiencing homelessness. We work in collaboration with the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless and other partners to provide these services.