Strengthening Our Future: Afterschool Programs at Neighborhood Networks Centers

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Description:

Afterschool programs offer more than a safe place for students to go during the out-of-school hours. They provide academic support and enrichment opportunities, as well as reinforce the importance of education. This session helps centers launch an afterschool program or enhance their existing program. From setting goals and objectives for youth programs to obtaining funding to support an afterschool program, this session explains how centers can establish an afterschool program that effectively meets the needs of young residents. Staff from Neighborhood Networks centers that currently offer creative models for youth programming, including arts programs, mentoring, teen councils, partnerships with local school districts, and more, will share with participants their experiences and offer best practices that can be replicated to create programs that empower youth.

Presenters:

Priscilla Balbuena
Community Coordinator
Park Crest Learning Center
Phone: (619) 263-8819

Clarence Hogan
Coordinator
Jane Addams Hull House Association’s LeClaire Neighborhood Network
Phone: (773) 735-1251

Priscilla Balbuena is the community coordinator for San Diego Community Housing Corporation's Park Crest Learning Center. Prior to joining the San Diego Community Housing Corporation, Ms. Balbuena served as assistant director, youth leader, tutor, and community coordinator for various afterschool programs. Ms. Balbuena’s experience as an intern and volunteer at local schools strengthened her knowledge of afterschool programs.

Ms. Balbuena is currently earning her master’s degree, teaching credentials, and cross-cultural, language, and academic development (CLAD) certificate from the University of Phoenix. She earned a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies with a specialty in human development from San Diego State University and an associate’s degree in the arts from Southwestern College.

Clarence Hogan has more than 15 years of experience as a technology instructor for community-based organizations, public schools, colleges, and corporate businesses, and currently serves as the coordinator of the Jane Addams Hull House Association’s LeClaire Neighborhood Network in Chicago, Illinois. During his professional career, Mr. Hogan has directed four inner-city, community-based computer centers. These centers offered active afterschool programs and educational enrichment programs for students, and job-readiness and computer training for adults. Mr. Hogan’s experience also includes serving as a substitute teacher, computer instructor, and career exploration program leader. As an independent contractor, Mr. Hogan worked with Chicago Public School’s C.L.E.A.R. project that familiarized teachers with laptop computers. He also established an organization that provides afterschool and out-of-school educational enrichment programs to first- through sixth-grade students at public libraries and community centers.

	Balbuena Presentation
	Hogan Presentation
	Resource List