Mission Statement – Project Lighten Up
Project Lighten Up (PLU) is committed to expanding educational and recreational opportunities for low- and middle-income families while strengthening the well-being of the broader community. Our programs provide structured remedial instruction, academic enrichment, mentoring, and recreational activities designed to prevent summer learning loss, strengthen aca
demic performance, and build self-esteem and self-confidence among children and youth. PLU operates year-round programs that create safe, supportive, and engaging environments where young people can grow academically, socially, and emotionally. During the summer months, PLU hosts the Community Summer Day Learning Academy, which combines academic instruction with recreational enrichment to prevent learning loss and promote continued educational growth. Throughout the academic year, PLU provides the After-School Action Program for Excellence (ASAP-E), offering tutoring, mentoring, and enrichment activities that reinforce classroom learning and support student success. These programs provide constructive, supervised alternatives to antisocial behaviors by engaging youth in positive activities that discourage involvement in gangs, criminal behavior, and substance abuse. Through mentoring and leadership development, PLU helps children and youth cultivate positive self-images, particularly for those who may face challenges associated with limited resources or unsupportive environments. By providing a safe and nurturing environment during after-school and summer hours, PLU also supports working families by ensuring their children have access to productive, educational, and supervised programming that promotes lifelong learning, personal growth, and responsible citizenship.
