Ten Years of Learning With At-risk Youth

Missoula has one of the highest rates of homelessness in Montana, and most of those people are children. For the last decade, Family BASICS has contracted with the Missoula County Public School system to provide McKinney-Vento services (named for the grant that funds the programs) to at-risk and homeless children.

A primary service BASICS provides is the McKinney-Vento tutoring program, which serves children in grades kindergarten through eight. In the 2002-03 school year, McKinney teachers Mike Heriza, Kathy Jager, Lynn Weger and Anneke Nushawg tutored a total of 50 students. An additional 25 students were assisted by volunteer tutors trained through the AmeriCorps program.

Developing leaders at summer camp

The McKinney-Vento grant also funds Family BASICS' Summer Arts, Leadership and Tutoring camp, which will launch its 11th year this summer, serving students in grades four through eight.

Over the years, the important work the camp does has been noted in the community. "The camp aims to build self-esteem, instill confidence, create leaders and teach respect and compassion among children, especially those identified as at risk because of financial or family circumstances or homelessness," wrote Missoulian reporter Jane Rider in an article last summer.

Campers work toward goals in many ways, including arts, outdoor camping, hiking, rope-climbing, computer activities, reading and writing. In 2002, 60 children were enrolled in the camp, with 42 graduating at the end of the seven weeks. In 2003, we expect even more campers.

Homelessness brings with it a myriad of difficulties. Family BASICS' McKinney-Vento programs strive to help families make good transitions, building their skills and abilities to not only survive as a family, but thrive in their community.

Help our kids enjoy the great outdoors!

Family BASICS is currently seeking donations for its Summer Arts, Leadership and Tutoring camp in the form of camping supplies and outdoor clothing. Gift certificates are especially appreciated, as a variety of gear in many sizes is needed.

Contact Family Advocate John Lilburn at 543-3550, extension 50, or at jlilburn@wordinc.org if you can help.