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West
End
Neighborhood
House
has been improving the lives of an ethnically, economically, and culturally diverse community since 1883. In 2016, the agency served over 10,000 individuals, and that number continues to grow, partly because of the outreach to students, ages 5 through 12, in the before- and after- care program and the full-day summer camp program.
West End Neighborhood House is a Star Level 3 program that is actively working toward its Star Level 4. Before care begins at 6:00 a.m. and after care ends at 6:00 p.m. The more than 30 children in these programs come from far and wide - two school districts and three Charter schools. The program focuses exclusively on school-age children.
"We are always looking for ways to get better," said Lynnea Chapman-Woody, child care coordinator. "The time the children spend with us is critical in getting their day off to a good start and to provide learning support through various activities."
Activities include field trips, sports, technology, arts and crafts, and academic enrichment.
During the school year, the program implements a supplemental curriculum called Al's Pals which is focused on developing children's social-emotional skills, problem-solving abilities, and healthy decision making.
"The success of these activities is made possible because of our passionate staff," said Kimura Anderson, program director. "Our four classrooms are supported by very committed teachers."
Both Lynnea and Kimura credit Stars for helping them support their teachers by providing structure and fresh ideas. "Working with Stars gives us new eyes," added Lynnea.
In addition to a school-age program, West End Neighborhood House offers a full-day summer camp program which includes educational programming, a reading curriculum in conjunction with University of Delaware, weekly field trips and a robust technology program to include coding, access to Chrome books, and Microsoft training.
The quality of the camp is getting the attention of surrounding communities. In one year, the number of children registered increased from 12 to 115. Quality clearly has a room at the West End Neighborhood House.
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