UFM Community Learning Center - 2023

UFM Community Learning Center received a $5,000 grant through the YES! Fund for their After School Tutoring Program. This funding has maintained consistent attendance and excellent tutor-to-tutoree ratios, ensuring high youth development standards. Students engaged in multidimensional learning, encompassing visual, auditory, and kinesthetic methods focused on reading and mathematics while developing a sense of cultural pride. The program also facilitated deeper family engagement through home visits and supported students with behavioral challenges by bringing in a social-emotional coach. Providing transportation to and from the program helped break down systemic barriers for youth whose parents are working or unable to drive them.

An example of the program's success is Tabasum's story. An Afghan refugee who joined as a kindergartener, Tabasum faced significant challenges in reading and writing due to English being her second language. With the dedicated support of tutor-mentor Jacklyn Hernandez and others, she made remarkable progress. Over time, Tabasum became more eager to speak and interact with her peers, bringing joy with her bright smile and boundless energy. A memorable moment occurred when she proudly introduced Mrs. Jacklyn to her classmates, highlighting the bond they had formed and the program's positive impact. This success story demonstrates how dedicated mentorship can make a difference in the lives of young students, especially those adapting to a new country and language, motivating UFM Community Learning Center to continue its mission.