How do you define priceless in the life of a child? Can it be as simple their first book or a visit to a museum?  What is priceless in terms of education?  Could that be homework help or tutoring in a subject that they struggle with each day?  What is the lasting impact that experience has? 

Help Our Children was founded in the summer of 2008.  During the next school term tutorial support and cultural enrichment were offered to 18 grade school children residing in Wilmington, Delaware.  Working in partnership with Brandywood Elementary School, and the Brandywine School District, the program pilot was a success.  Children were identified to participate in the pilot program.

1. The purpose of this program was to increase the academic performance of 18 grade school students attending Brandywood Elementary School by providing educational assistance and cultural enrichment opportunities.  The goal is to support 100 students by 2010.
2. One of the unique features of this program is that tutorial support is linked to classroom instruction.  Students are expected to increase their grade level during the six months of the program.  Tutors for the program are retired educators.
3. The cultural enrichment activities are coordinated one Saturday and one weekday during the month.  Student participation is privileged based; the student’s academic performance and behavior in the tutoring program determines eligibility to participate in the bi-monthly cultural trips.
4. Through the cultural enrichment events, students will experience activities and environments unfamiliar to their everyday routines, thereby allowing them to develop their curiosity and explore opportunities for learning.  Trips focus on the arts, music, sporting events, nutrition and nature activities.  Parents, guardians and siblings are invited to create a bonding experience for the entire family.
5. This program not only plants the seeds for learning, but cultivates and nurtures the child to develop strong roots towards becoming a productive citizen of the future.
6. Parents and Guardians are encouraged to participate in the cultural activities.  Also to increase reading comprehension parents are asked to read with their child on a nightly basis for a minimum of thirty minutes.
7. The program exposes the students to career professionals in sharing their career responsibilities.  They communicate with the students and read out loud during their visits to the school.

18 students participated in the pilot program.  Fifteen students reside in the city of Wilmington and 50% of the students reside in an area of the city with a poverty rate of nearly 33%. 

HOC is a passionate organization where spirit is renewed, minds are nurtured and bodies are strengthened.  We at HOC believe in equality, dignity, and the worth of every child.  We recognize that educating our children requires a community response.

For more information or to donate contact Agnes Ogletree (215) 888-5170