The Erlanger-Elsmere Independent School District is asking for the community’s help to ensure the afterschool program at Howell Elementary continues to change the lives of children and families in our community.
For years, Howell Elementary and the RC Durr YMCA have partnered to provide a beneficial and structured after-school environment for hundreds of children of working parents in our region. Programs like this one are known to boost academic performance, reduce risky behaviors and even promote physical health. But now, the program is in danger because of unexpected funding cuts.
“The grant funding that has supported our life-changing afterschool program has been significantly reduced this year,” said Dr. Kathy Burkhardt, superintendent of Erlanger-Elsmere Schools. “We have a number of families on a waiting list just to attend.”
The school district has partnered with the United Way to establish a microgrant in the amount of $25,000 that will save the program – which is offered to participants free of charge – and allow it to operate at its fullest potential.
“This essential program offers a safe, educational environment after school for students within Howell Elementary,” said Rebecca Nooe, Senior Program Director for the YMCA. “It is a true extension of the school day, helping with tutoring and academics, and provides a plethora of enrichment opportunities.”
To support the grant, anyone – friends and relatives, community members, businesses, and more – can give a monetary gift of any size. Once the grant’s total is fulfilled it will provide the needed funding to extend the afterschool program to serve 50 more children.
“If we can encourage many people to make a financial investment in our community’s children it will make a meaningful and lasting impact,” Dr. Burkhardt said. “Even the smallest gift will add up to making a big difference.”
To make a gift:
Visit the grant’s page directly on the United Way website
Or access the link from the school district’s webpage.
