“…children in low-income families often reach adulthood without the tools, experiences, and connections to help them thrive. These children are more likely to suffer from preventable illnesses, fail in school and become teen parents than children from more affluent families—and they are more likely to be unemployed as adults.” (Source: 2006 Kids Count Data Book State Profile, The Annie E. Casey Foundation)

“Improving children’s ability to read is the single most important way to help them gain the skills and confidence needed to break the cycle of poverty and make a better life for themselves.” Save the Children US Programs

Sadly, funding for primary education appears to have a dismal future. However, the demand for academic and social intervention programs like Great Kids will continue to grow.

Source: The May 7, 2007 Community Agenda Snapshot; Volusia & Flagler Counties; may view at www.agendavf.org.

Research shows that children from low-income families are at greater risk of poor and/or failing grades in school. They are also more likely to engage in unhealthy behavior We provide FREE tutoring, including transportation 49% of Volusia County children are from low income households We are closing the “achievement gap” by providing FREE tutoring   33% of Florida’s & 28% of Volusia County’s 5th graders failed the FCAT reading test Early intervention will equip students with the necessary skills and motivation to achieve success. Kindergarten children entering school: • 29% are not able to  recognize letters of the alphabet • 35% are not able to pronounce letters/words We teach children reading skills especially developed for kindergarten & first grade children