What's Next for the Program?

http://www.johngrahamshelter.org/face/children/children.html

For more information on homelessness in families and its effect on children, see the website above.

AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM(S):

Depending on funding, space, and volunteer availability, we are moving toward establishing two after school program centers, one in Elkton and one near Earleville. These programs may start only two days per week, but over time may grow into every-week-night after-school centers. Some possible partnerships with other agencies are being considered. Center participation will not necessarily be tied to remediation or giftedness issues, as is often the case with school-based after-school programs, but will be open to all school-age residents of either of the MG family-friendly facilities, those who have been residents, and also their non-homeless peers. The centers will serve as anchor points for the rest of the ConnecTreks (AfterCare) program and other related Meeting Ground initiatives.

CHRISTMAS TREE DECORATING PROJECT:

Beginning Wednesday, October 3rd, ConneTreks participants will begin producing ornaments to adorn a Christmas tree in connection with the Elkton Chamber and Alliance HOLIDAY ARTS ARE ALIVE — A Festival of Trees and More! event in the Town of Elkton. Participants will meet temporarily at Wayfarer House every Wednesday after school (through November 7th) while awaiting the completion of the new after-school center location. Many thanks go out to the private donor who provided the entrance fee for the ConnecTreks Program, and to Anne Highfield (see below) for facilitating this activity.

LIFE-SKILLS/SPECIAL INTEREST WORKSHOP FOR FALL 2007:

This fall will mark the beginning of the ConnecTreks Photography Workshop. Anne Highfield, a Cecil County Public Schools teacher and Meeting Ground volunteer, has connected with a professional photographer colleague willing to help children and youth develop skills in digital photography. Additional volunteers skilled in this area are encouraged to contact the ConnecTreks program using the information shown at the bottom of this page. Some weekend field trips will punctuate this every-Wednesday, after school workshop which begins on November 14th. This project also is in need of used digital cameras with software in good condition and WalMart gift cards for purchase of prints and portfolios.