Enriching Lives, One at a Time

The sheer volume of AEF’s Enrichment program is impressive enough – 400 after school classes and 70 summer camps serving upwards of 3,000 students per year. But it’s the impact it makes on the individual students that means the most.

Take Caitlin*. A second grader, Caitlin signed up for one of AEF’s “Beginning Violin” classes. She had missed almost the full prior year of school following three weeks in the hospital and was finding it hard to adjust to being back at school. Her parents thought signing her up for a music class would be a good idea, and what a good idea it was! There was something about this class that turned Caitlin’s passion back on for learning. Her violin teacher Donna Eyestone provides a caring, student-focused environment welcoming for all students. By the end of the 10 week program Caitlin was shining! Her mom said the violin class has “turned Caitlin’s life around.”

Then there’s Isaiah*. Last summer Isaiah took AEF’s “Solar Power” enrichment camp. He became so interested in solar power, that he continued learning about it, became passionate about it and even spoke before both the Public Utilities Board and Alameda Unified School Board advocating for the use of solar power. All at 12 years old!

Lauren* was so nervous about running in her first cross country meet (AEF runs a fall cross country program for middle schoolers, the Alameda Asteroids), that she asked her mom if she could quit right after the meet. Instead, Lauren finished her race and asked her mom if they could host a barbeque at their house for the team. And she’s still running!

You never know when a child will become inspired. Giving students the opportunity to take part in interesting and unique programs can make an impact that will last a lifetime. To check out AEF’s 2016 summer camps, please click here.

*Names have been changed for privacy.