DORRIS DANN KIDS CAMPUS
Working with our communities' children began when we first opened our doors . . .
By simply reading stories to the children who accompanied their parents to our Food Pantry, we learned about their needs and the lack of resources available to meet these needs. Growing up in an impoverished community compounds the stress and challenges of overcoming barriers to well-being: gangs, drugs, blight, racism, food deserts, inequality and increased crime rates, to name just a few.
In 1989, to meet the needs of our community’s children, we established our Youth Development Programs. Enrichment opportunities were created and expanded to optimize each child’s academic experience. In 2006, generous grants and donations enabled the construction of the 18,000 square foot Kids Campus Youth Center. Named after late and beloved Executive Director, the Dorris Dann Kids Campus includes a middle school-sized gymnasium, 1,340 square foot tutoring and performing arena, computer lab, art studio and six classrooms. Kids Campus’ goal is to encourage and prepare youth to succeed by reinforcing their development in academics while also encouraging social and emotional learning through enrichment in arts, athletics, health and wellness, and community responsibility. Today, programming includes After-School Expanded Learning, Summer Expanded Learning, and Soccer for Success.
DDKC
After-School Expanded Learning Program
In partnership with the El Monte City School District, before and after school education and enrichment programming is offered Monday through Friday throughout the school year. Academic support, academic enrichment, physical activity and a nutritious snack is provided in a safe, constructive environment, by specialized instructors at a 20:1 instructor-to-student ratio. Tutoring and homework assistance are coupled with youth development activities that reinforce and complement the school’s academic program. Designed to enhance a child’s individual learning experience, expanded learning includes computer education, gym sports, and a variety of clubs.
For questions about our After School Expanded Learning Program, please contact info@kcycenter.org or call (626) 329-0860.
DDKC
Attending DDKC allowed me to meet so many people and make new friends. I still talk and keep in contact with most of these people to this day and they have greatly impacted my life. They helped shape me into who I am today.
— Hanita L. | DDKC
DDKC
Summer Expanded Learning Program
Summer enrichment opportunities are crucial to a child’s social, emotional, creative and physical wellbeing. Integrating educational concepts that reduce the tendency for students to forget what was learned during the school year, the Summer Expanded Learning Program encourages and motivates children in grades K-9 to keep learning through hands-on activities. Children rotate through a variety of physical, cultural and skill-building activities that include sports, cultural and artistic exposure, and art. The Summer Program is free for children of qualifying El Monte residents and meets Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
For questions about our Youth Development Programs, please contact info@kcycenter.org or call (626) 329-0860.