2026-27 Afterschool Enrichment Program

Description

Operation Exodus provides a comprehensive suite of services tailored to marginalized youth and families in Washington Heights, addressing academic, social-emotional, economic, cultural, and transitional needs.

Academic Support: Our After School Program delivers structured tutoring, homework help, and enrichment to strengthen core subjects, study habits, and academic confidence. College and career readiness workshops guide students through the application process, financial literacy, and career exploration.

Faith Formation & Spiritual Growth: Daily bible study led by a youth pastor and staff members.  Our Bible study program provides a safe and supportive environment where students can explore their faith, ask questions, and share their experiences. Each session includes engaging discussions, interactive activities, and opportunities for personal reflection.

Saturday Mentoring Program: Students in grades 3-12 are matched with mentors to develop long-term, transformative relationships where they can be seen and heard. Mentoring supports students in areas of self-awareness and discovery, cultural identity, healthy communication, and prosocial behavior. Mentoring operates primarily on Saturday mornings during the school year and includes field trips and recreational activities that support relationship building. All volunteer mentors undergo a rigorous screening process and background check and participate in training to ensure they are a good fit. All volunteers commit to at least one year with the program to ensure stability in our students' lives.

Family Engagement & Basic Needs: We connect families to housing assistance, employment services, and food programs. Seasonal distributions — Boxes of Love for Thanksgiving and back-to-school backpacks — and emergency supports address acute needs and food insecurity that directly affect children’s learning and family stability.

Cultural & Language Access: Bilingual staff and materials reflect the Dominican heritage of most families. Programs are culturally responsive, and we link families to English language learning resources to improve access to services and school engagement.

Leadership & Community Engagement: Students gain leadership experience through civic engagement, community service projects, and organizing community events, thereby building responsibility and social capital.

Transition Support: Targeted mentoring, orientation sessions, and resources help students navigate key transitions (elementary to middle school, middle school to high school, high school to postsecondary).

Impact: Over 85% of participating students show improved grades, 90% of families report increased access to essential resources, and 100% of our graduating students go on to college or trade school.

In-Person Instruction