Kids on the Block

Kid on the Block logo
is a safe after-school enrichment program for elementary school children that builds successful kids.  It consists of two parts:
  1. POWER HOUR—Children work on homework with individual support from certified teachers;
  2. KIDS ON THE BLOCK—Children participate in games, arts and crafts, and gym and playground time.
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It all began when people in McMinnville were concerned for children who were home after school and unsupervised due to the increase of both parents working, and to bring the community and the school district closer together.   City government, schools and business leaders combined their resources to launch Kids on the Block in 1989.  The program offers educational and recreational opportunities at elementary schools, providing a safe, enriching environment for children until their parents return home from work.

 

 KOB-Kids3.jpgSUCCESS! 

Kids on the Block makes a huge difference in the lives of over 550 children each year at all six of McMinnville School District’s grade schools. It provides a safe, smart, fun mix of academic support and extracurricular enrichment. Students participate in one hour of homework support and academic enrichment and two hours of recreational enrichment activities.   The program is showing results.

Teachers report that roughly 2 of 3 students show improvement in reading math and writing. The students do a better job on homework and show improved attentiveness and behavior in class.

KOB-Kids2.jpgYour support makes a difference.

CHALLENGES AHEAD: KOB is supported by many community partnerships involving local businesses, Parks & Recreation, and School District 40.  The Mayor’s Charity Ball is also an essential partner.  Money raised by the Ball covers about a third of the program budget.  A federal grant that helped sustain the remainder of the program costs has been eliminated.  This means that KOB will not be able to continue offering the full program without additional funding.

 

LOOKING FORWARD — How will we sustain this great program?

We can sustain this great program for our children by working together as a community. With the continued support by community partnerships involving local businesses, the City Parks and Recreation Department, and School District 40, we can make a difference in the lives of our children! Your continued support of the Mayor’s Ball makes a positive difference. To make a donation or become more involved in Kids on the Block, contact: director@mayorsball.com.