Children, Youth and Families Education and Research Network

Author and Contributors: Arnett, Nate (1 more by this author); Kim Catchpole, Theresa Ferrari, Graham Cochran, Parker Charles Burks, Jennille Love, Ashley Krogel, Lois Woods
Publisher: The Ohio State University (February 2011)
Review Level: Peer review
Primary Content Area: Programs of Distinction
Content Type: General Information
Audience: Professionals, Educators & Program Staff
Resource Type: An extension or a land-grant developed resource
Keywords: afterschool, nature, urban, partnership, positive, parent
Description: A recent study conducted by the Afterschool Alliance found that in these challenging economic times afterschool programs are needed more than ever. Demand for programs is up, funding is down, and while overall afterschool programs are struggling, this need is even more pronounced in African-American communities. Adventure Central in Dayton, Ohio is a program that is filling this gap by serving at-risk, African-American children and their families by providing non-formal educational programs outside of school hours. Adventure Central is a positive youth development partnership of 4-H, Ohio State University Extension, and Five Rivers MetroParks. Using nature, staff nurtures families in life-changing activities that strengthen values, build lasting life skills, and empower youth to explore life's possibilities. The afterschool program is the primary programmatic effort for this dynamic youth education center. Evaluations with parents and long term youth participants indicate that the program is delivering educational and social benefits as well as opportunities to do new things ina safe and supportive environment. Adventure Central integrates high touch with opportunities to connect with nature. The result: participants gain strengthened values, lasting life skills, and both an eagerness and confidence to explore life's possibilities and the natural world.
Media Type: HTML
Resource Listed: February 28, 2011
Resource Last Updated: January 2, 2013
Language: EN

Adventure Central Afterschool Program