Kid Power is the only nonprofit expanded learning program offering a three-pronged approach to helping DC students grow and become engaged leaders in their communities. Each year, Kid Power helps hundreds of youth succeed academically, empowers them to become engaged leaders and responsible citizens, and fosters healthy living through community gardens. Kid Power students work every day to build a stronger, healthier, and more resilient District. Programs include:
After-School Programming: Kid Power provides a continued learning opportunity for students following school-day operations that include academic and enrichment support. Serving more than 450 DCPS 2nd-8th grade students daily, students begin each day with our Academic Power Hour. Students receive homework help and small group mentoring/tutoring, implemented by Kid Power Instructors, who work collaboratively with DC Public School teachers for assistance with school-day instruction. In-School Programming: Kid Power re-branded and expanded our program offerings in partner schools to include program activities that integrate wellness into the entire school culture. In the program, our FoodCorps Service Members teach in-school health, garden, and environmental lessons to over 1,000 students. Kid Power students learn about health, wellness, and nutrition through hands-on gardening, cooking lessons, and STEM-based environmental science lessons. Kid Power’s FoodCorps Service Members also run cafeteria taste-test events, composting and recycling components, and school-based markets. Mentoring & Enrichment Programming: Kid Power offers unique enrichment opportunities through our freeform, youth-led, enrichment program for students in middle and high school. The goal is to empower youth to explore career, college, financial literacy, civic engagement, and personal goals on their own terms. Youth participate in career site visits, field trips, and bi-monthly workshops that teach and empower. The mentoring program supports DC public and charter school students in grades 8-12 with one-to-one community-based mentors to support them with academic, career, civic engagement, and personal development goals. This program follows national best practices that support enhanced youth outcomes and includes career site visits, college tours, enrichment activities, and ongoing match support. Summer Leadership Academy: Kid Power’s Summer Leadership Academy offers a 5-week program serving approximately 150 DC students each summer, providing a safe, structured space and helping to prevent summer learning loss. Youth complete a variety of innovative and exploratory enrichment, service, and recreational activities. Kid Power alumni serve as Junior Counselors through the DC Summer Youth Employment Program(SYEP).
