Meeting the physical needs of children is a foundational step in supporting their wellness and academic progress. At A Better World, we foster an environment where students feel safe from harm and this results in their enhanced ability to focus. Additionally, the daily hot meals and scheduled recreation we provide contributes to their balanced development and overall well-being. Extending our support beyond our campus, we also provide food pantry access where students in need receive a weekly supply of groceries. This contributes to the nutritional stability of their families while reducing household stress. Lastly, in collaboration with our community partners, we provide access to grooming services such as barbering and styling which increases the confidence of students while meeting their health and hygiene needs. 

Instructional interventions, 1-on-1 support, and literacy reinforcement are crucial components of student success. At A Better World, we employ these strategies to ensure our students are equipped to thrive on their educational journey. Our Instructional interventions address specific learning gaps and allow us to meet diverse student needs. Further enhancing this personalized approach, one-on-one support provides students with the opportunity to engage directly with a reading buddy, homework helper, or tutor to gain a deeper understanding of educational material presented. Lastly,  for a minimum of 2 days each week, A Better Word’s students engage in digital literacy lessons via i-Ready, an evidence-based learning platform. Literacy reinforcement develops essential reading and writing skills, which serve as the foundation for academic achievement across all subjects. By combining small group instruction, 1-on-1 support, and access to school supplies, we have seen sizable gains in student achievement with select students increasing their academic performance by two grade levels by the end of a single school year. 

For children who reside in underserved communities, access to mental health resources is often limited. However, research reveals therapy plays a vital role in supporting their well-being. At-risk youth frequently face a multitude of challenges, including poverty, exposure to violence, and unstable home environments. Therapy provides a safe space for them to express their emotions, process trauma, and develop positive coping strategies. At a Better World, we provide group therapy for our students twice a week. In each session, licensed counselors engage our students in age-appropriate dialogue around emotions, personal safety, and coping strategies when faced with stress. Access to therapy helps children to break the cycle of adversity and provides them with the tools to succeed emotionally, socially, and academically. We believe this investment in their emotional wellness not only benefits the children engaged in the therapy, but also fosters a healthier and more vibrant community for future generations. 

Spiritual guidance provides children with a sense of purpose and belonging which are essential for emotional health. By encouraging practices such as prayer, reflection, and positive behavior, children learn resilience, improve their focus, and develop values that enhance their interactions in school and in life. A Better World’s students have access to group prayer and faith practice and are additionally exposed to expansive and culturally rich experiences including field trips, music lessons, fitness programs, and more. These activities not only contribute to their emotional stability but also cultivate an environment conducive to academic excellence. Our programs play a vital role in integrating spiritual support into children’s lives, helping them grow into well-rounded, successful individuals.