(New Philadelphia, Ohio) – Two non-profit organizations are teaming up in Tuscarawas County to offer a new after-school program.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Ohio (BBBS) and the Dover-New Philadelphia Salvation Army are working together to launch The Learning Zone beginning September 10th. The program will be open from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. for children in Grades K-5 and will provide an opportunity for children to receive homework tutoring, participate in social and emotional enrichment activities, enjoy a healthy snack, and participate in recreational activities.
“This program provides us with the unique ability to provide a safe place for children to learn and play, but more importantly to grow socially, emotionally, and academically,” explained Lt. Andrew Allen, the Corps Officer at The Salvation Army in Dover-New Philadelphia.
Big Brothers Big Sisters will provide free mentoring services every Tuesday from 4:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. Children will be paired with a Big that will work on activities with them, play games, and assist with any schoolwork. The program will be supervised by a BBBS site coordinator at all times.
BBBS is currently looking for volunteers that would like to be matched in the program. Volunteers can either be a high school student or an adult that is available during program hours. Volunteers or parents interested in enrolling their children in the BBBS mentoring program at Salvation Army can inquire by calling 330-339-6916 or email site coordinator Lauren Countryman at lcountryman@bigs4kids.com. The program will begin Tuesday, October 2nd.
Transportation for children attending New Philadelphia West Elementary is available. Additionally, financial assistance is available. Enrollment for The Learning Zone is currently open and parents or guardians can register their children at The Salvation Army located at 809 Emmet Ave. NW in New Philadelphia. For questions, please call (330) 364-3811 ext. 302.
