Funding Area: Education
ForKids, inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness and poverty for families and children. Headquartered in Norfolk, Virginia, ForKids has been in operation since 1988, providing shelter, housing, education, and support services to families and children experiencing homelessness. Children’s education is one of the most critical services necessary to lead families on a path out of poverty and we offer afterschool programs to give students the tools they need to improve their core skills, perform on grade level, promote to the next grade and graduate from high school.
Our involvement: The Marty Tomberg Charitable Fund has financially supported this organization.
Projects We Support
ForKids in Schools Pilot 2.0
ForKids in Schools was developed as a result of research into best practices across the country. A successful three-year pilot program was the genesis of Pilot 2.0, which brings education services directly into schools and creates public and private partnerships to enhance the delivery of academic programming. In partnership with the YWCA, and the YMCA of South Hampton Roads, ForKids provides academic remediation, enrichment, and recreation in a safe, supportive environment.
Students identified as homeless by teachers or administration will be offered small-group remediation in guided math and/or literacy activities that align with regular classroom instruction and are designed to increase skill level. Each session begins with a Mindfulness exercise. Students will receive assistance with assigned homework and remedial work in needed areas. One day per week, students will participate in a REACH RAP (Read Aloud Program) session and complete a connecting activity. Students will spend time in Exploration Stations to include activities such as computer time for Math IXL or research projects, art projects coordinated with a theme or event, group presentations, makerspace activities related to science, technology and engineering, scavenger hunts or movie making. Students participate in structured games which encourage teamwork, cooperation, social and leadership skills development and competition in a supervised environment.
Support Dates: April, 2018 – March, 2019
Organization and Project Photos
