Empowering Youth and Families Outreach (EYFO) has developed a comprehensive suite of programs designed to address the diverse needs of underserved youth in South Seattle and South King County. In addition to the core services of year-round child care, tutoring, and enrichment activities, EYFO offers a range of specialized programs that foster academic success, personal development, and leadership skills. Below is an outline of our various initiatives:
1. Summer Programs
During the summer months, EYFO provides a series of camps and enrichment activities that help children and youth stay engaged, develop new skills, and stay safe while school is out. These include:
- Summer Camps: Engaging outdoor camps with a focus on physical activities, arts, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).
- Outdoor Exploration: Opportunities for youth to explore nature, learn about the environment, and engage in team-building exercises.
- Sports Camps: A focus on building teamwork, physical fitness, and confidence through various sports, including soccer, basketball, and track.
2. STEM Programs
EYFO places a strong emphasis on STEM education to inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- STEM Workshops: Hands-on activities and experiments that make science, technology, engineering, and math fun and accessible for all ages.
- STEM Mentorship: Youth are paired with mentors from STEM fields who guide them through projects and encourage them to pursue careers in these growing fields.
- Robotics & Coding: After-school programs and summer camps that teach coding and robotics, helping children gain technical skills and preparing them for future opportunities.
3. Creative Minds Learning Academy (CMLA)
CMLA is EYFO’s educational arm, offering a structured, year-round academic environment for children aged 0-13.
- Early Childhood Education: Through a nurturing environment, we provide developmental programs for younger children, preparing them for kindergarten and beyond.
- After-School Tutoring: Targeted academic support for students to improve literacy, math, and critical thinking skills.
- Homework Assistance: We offer a quiet space for children to complete homework, with staff providing one-on-one help as needed.
- Enrichment Activities: Creative activities like arts and crafts, theater, dance, and music that complement academic learning.
4. Entrepreneurship and Life Skills
EYFO believes in empowering youth to think beyond traditional career paths and cultivate entrepreneurial mindsets.
- Entrepreneurship Programs: Youth are introduced to basic business concepts, from idea generation to budgeting and marketing. They have opportunities to pitch their ideas and develop business plans.
- Leadership Training: Focused workshops and experiences that help youth build self-confidence, communication skills, and the ability to work effectively with others.
- Financial Literacy: Students are taught the basics of managing money, saving, investing, and budgeting, giving them tools for success in adulthood.
5. Arts and Creative Expression
EYFO provides a wide range of creative arts programs that allow youth to explore their interests and express themselves.
6. College and Career Readiness
6. College and Career Readiness
EYFO is committed to helping students prepare for their future beyond high school, focusing on academic success and career pathways.
- College Prep Programs: Workshops on navigating the college application process, writing essays, and securing financial aid and scholarships.
- Career Exploration: Youth are exposed to a variety of career fields through guest speakers, internships, and job shadowing opportunities.
- Workshops on Building Resilience: Offering skills to help students navigate challenges in school and life, ensuring they have the mental fortitude to pursue their dreams.
7. After-School Child Care (Ages 0-13)
EYFO offers year-round child care services that are both safe and enriching, tailored to meet the developmental needs of children at various age levels.
- Infant and Toddler Care: Our youngest learners are cared for in a safe, nurturing environment where they begin to develop social and cognitive skills.
- School-Aged Child Care: A fun and structured after-school program that supports academic achievement while also providing recreational opportunities for children.
- Parent Support: We engage families through regular updates, parent workshops, and activities that foster a strong community connection.
8. Community Engagement and Family Support
EYFO’s work goes beyond youth programming to ensure that families are supported and empowered to be active participants in their children's success.
- Parent Education Workshops: Topics include financial literacy, parenting strategies, and advocating for children in education systems.
- Family Support Services: We help families access resources such as food banks, housing support, and health services to ensure that children have the stable, supportive home environment they need to thrive.
- Community Events: Regular gatherings, including cultural celebrations, health fairs, and resource fairs, that foster community building and offer support to local families.
9. Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and Mental Health Support
Recognizing the importance of emotional well-being, EYFO incorporates social-emotional learning and mental health support across all of its programs.
- SEL Programs: Workshops and group activities that teach youth about self-awareness, emotional regulation, and healthy relationship-building.
By providing these multifaceted programs, EYFO is able to offer underserved youth the tools and resources they need to succeed, not just academically but in life. Our focus on holistic development, leadership, and community support ensures that youth and families have the opportunities and support necessary to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.
