On-The-Rise is a uniquely structured farm program serving at risk youth, ages 10-15, in Clark County. This program is year round and provides extended, hand-on learning opportunities.
Students learn responsibility by caring for goats and chickens, doing farm chores and running the brown egg business while also enhancing their academic abilities by working with tutors on areas they struggle with.
Springfield area's youth have limited access to positive goal oriented activities. This paired with lack of parent or family involvement, and/or motivation, the youth's chance to succeed is decreased. Family participation and communication is necessary to make changes, so On-The-Rise provides resources to families in need such as clothing, food, supplies and helping them to find connections.
During the summer, youth lose a percentage of what they learned in the previous school year; it is even harder on youth who struggle academically and socially. A comprehensive reading program is used to maintain or improve on academic success. 85% of those in the program have retained or achieved comprehensive skills. All youth participating in the program also learn about how to make healthier life decisions, as well as better food choices. This is achieved through gardening and cooking demonstrations. In the past year, 90% of these youth were successful in doing so.
After school is the prime time for criminal activities involving youth; On-The-Rise decreases opportunities for negative behaviors by keeping students involved. Outside activities such as gardening, hiking and barn chores lend themselves to many positives for youth. This program offers youth a positive environment that promotes responsibility, compassion, work ethic and positive self image by getting back to the basics while working in a farm setting. By eliminating the familiar urban setting and exposing youth to new environments gives them a chance to succeed and become more of a contributing member of society.
On-The-Rise has been successfully operating for 17 years in providing youth with positive role models, rewarding activities and learning experiences they need to gain self respect.
United Way is proud to fund an agency that is making such an impact in the community of Clark County. If you are interested in learning more about, or getting involved with On-The-Rise visit their
website
or call
(937) 964-1402
.
