Project Description

One of COA’s core values is empowerment. COA works diligently to empower the children, families, and communities we serve by providing the sustaining resources, services, and programming families need to prosper. 

Empowerment helps build strong communities, support family resiliency, and nurture children to achieve their greatest potential. 

Empowerment in Action 

Our youth development programs empower youth to reach their greatest potential academically and beyond. Youth who attend our centers participate in activities that help instill confidence, promote self-expression, and teach important life skills like responsibility, teamwork, leadership, and more. 

Learn more about what our Youth Development Centers and CLC staff had to say about just a few of the outstanding students who participate in our programs:  

“Our pre-teen leader of the month of January is Mia*! Mia made the honor roll for the first time and was so proud to come to COA to show us all the certificate she received. This is a huge milestone for her! We are super proud of the work that she has put in and we are looking forward to seeing her grow even more in the program!” –Brad 

“In the spotlight this month is Tayshia*: Tayshia has struggled with math for a while now, but we had a lot of time this week to do one-on-one tutoring and practice our math skills. Tayshia has so far learned how to do division and answer the problems by herself! She now has a small group of 1st graders she helps with addition! She loves the fact that she can help the younger group with homework after school. We will continue to meet twice a week and work on reading and math.” -Dayshia

Did you know: 93.10% of participants at our youth development centers (ages 6-11) improved in the area of believing it is important to do well in school? 

“Cedric* is respectful and follows directions. Cedric often volunteers to help out in the classroom or the cafeteria. He also is a team player with his friends, encouraging them to follow directions and stay on task. He carries a positive attitude at all times. He is a great role model for his peers.” –Ms. Garcia

“Martin* is a first-year participant at our CLC. In his first year, he impressed staff with intelligence and ambition. When Martin completes his homework, he volunteers to go help other students with theirs. He has talked to me and other staff members about when he grows up he wants to help others out to become successful. When I heard him say that has a 5th grader, I thought, ‘this kid is going to do great things in life.’” –Markevan 

Did you know: 92.86% of participants at our youth centers (ages 12+) improved in the area of believing they can make a difference in their communities? 

Learn more about the ways COA helps empower students, families, and communities in our Annual Report.