Foundation Of Community Assistance And Leadership Inc

The Foundation of Community Assistance and Leadership Inc., abbreviated as FOCAL, is committed to serving low-income youth through an afterschool and summer camp program. Their mission is multifaceted, encompassing various educational and skill-building activities. These include providing homework assistance and tutoring, fostering interest in computer science and nutrition, encouraging entrepreneurship and employment opportunities, preparing students for higher education, and promoting physical well-being through physical education.

FOCAL's afterschool and summer camp program aims to empower youth by offering a comprehensive range of activities. The program has been successful in attracting over 150 participants annually, with an impressive retention rate of over 85%. The dedication and support of FOCAL's outstanding staff have contributed to the academic achievement of these participants, as demonstrated by their improved test scores in reading and math. In addition to academic support, FOCAL provides enriching experiences through local field trips and college tours, ensuring that their students gain a broader perspective of the world.

Moreover, FOCAL recognizes the importance of addressing the nutritional needs of its participants, particularly given the low-income context in which it operates. Therefore, the program includes nutrition programs to ensure that students do not go to bed hungry. The commitment to holistic development is evident in FOCAL's mission, which extends beyond academics to include life skills workshops that help students improve their pre-existing skills and knowledge. The program's success is further evidenced by the significant improvement in students' scores after participating in these workshops.