YMCA offering after school programs locally

Thursday, July 31, 2014

Students' success out of school can impact how well they perform in school. Currently, 15.1 million children nationwide and 30 percent of children in Indiana are left unsupervised after 3 p.m. and do not participate in afterschool programs, according to Afterschool Alliance, a nonprofit public awareness advocacy organization.

During these hours, it's important that youth are involved in meaningful activities that motivate and inspire them to learn. Otherwise, they are at greater risk of involvement in crime, drug abuse and other destructive behaviors.

With this in mind, the Clay County YMCA offers afterschool programs in Putnam County in which youth receive homework assistance, healthy snacks, physical activity and character education.

The Clay County YMCA offers quality child care at Ridpath Primary School (serving Ridpath, Deer Meadow, Tzouanakis and Greencastle Middle School) and North Putnam Middle School (serving Roachdale, Bainbridge and North Putnam Middle School).

Monday Morning Care is also available at Greencastle Middle School to meet the needs of families with the later start on Monday mornings. Monday Morning programming is from 7:15 a.m. to 8:20 a.m. every Monday morning that school is in session. The Y has qualified experienced staff on-site afterschool until 6 p.m. Monday through Friday when school is in session.

Combining play with academics, the Y's afterschool program provides learning enrichment through arts, music, physical education, sports and nutrition. It also provides children with an extra support system to help them achieve and reach their full potential.

As a leading nonprofit committed to youth development, and a pioneer in afterschool programs, the Y believes guidance, encouragement and support through positive role models, along the learning continuum -- from early learning and preschool to high school graduation and college -- provide the best chance for youth to succeed in school and life.

"Learning enrichment after school is essential to increasing children's success in school," said Nicole Fry, Executive Branch Director, Clay County YMCA. "The opportunity to get additional learning and support and participate in meaningful activities can inspire the motivation and ability to succeed."

Studies show participation in afterschool programs helps boost school attendance and academic performance and reduces gaps in academic achievement among children from disadvantaged households.

Children can also explore arts, crafts and music beyond typically school day routines. Financial assistance is available to those in need, to ensure every child and teen has the opportunity to learn and grow at the Y.

For more information about the afterschool program contact Nicole Fry, Executive Branch Director, 812-442-6761.

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