Youth Programs ↘

Is your child struggling to keep up with their grade level in reading and writing?

Do you want to provide them with the tools they need to succeed in a supportive and engaging environment? Look no further than Riverbend Reading Club, a FREE program brought to you by YWCA!

Designed specifically for kids in grades 1st – 4th grade, Riverbend Reading Club is your child's pathway to reaching their full potential in literacy. Our small, relaxed group setting ensures personalized attention and a comfortable learning environment where every child can thrive.

What's Included:

Additional Phonics Instruction: Strengthen your child's foundational skills with targeted phonics instruction, paving the way for confident reading and writing.

Lunch: Fuel your child's learning journey with nutritious meals provided daily.

Fun Enrichment Activities: Learning doesn't stop at the books! Your child will enjoy a variety of enriching activities designed to spark creativity and curiosity.

Don't let your child fall behind—empower them to soar with Riverbend Reading Club! Spaces are limited, so secure your child's spot today.

At Riverbend Reading Club, we don't just aim to catch your child up to grade level—we strive to exceed expectations! We've partnered with the renowned Fountas & Pinnell Leveled Literacy Curriculum, a proven supplementary intervention system that has transformed the literacy achievement of struggling readers worldwide.

With engaging leveled books and fast-paced, systematically designed lessons, your child will embark on an exciting journey toward literacy success. Our expert instructors group students at similar reading levels, ensuring tailored instruction that meets each child's unique needs. With no more than 5 – 6 kids per group, your child will receive the individualized attention they deserve.

Summer Session Details:

📅 When: November 18th, 2024 - Thursday May 15th, 2025

🕙 Time: Mondays to Thursdays, from approximately 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM

📍 Where: YWCA

Is your son navigating the challenging terrain of pre-teen and adolescent years? Equip him with the tools he needs to thrive and flourish with Boys Council—a transformative, strength-based program designed to promote safe and healthy passage through adolescence.

About Boys Council:

Boys Council is more than just a program—it's a brotherhood. Tailored for boys ages 10 to 16, Boys Council provides a structured yet nurturing environment where boys can develop strong, positive relationships while exploring and embracing their unique identities.

Our Approach:

In weekly sessions led by experienced facilitators, a small group of no more than 12 boys engage in a variety of activities designed to foster personal growth and camaraderie. From warm-up exercises to reflective dialogues, Boys Council offers a holistic approach to addressing masculine definitions and behaviors, empowering boys to recognize their innate value and create fulfilling lives.

Each session is carefully crafted to address relevant topics through experiential activities, group challenges, games, role-playing, and more. From healthy competition to safe expressions of emotions, Boys Council covers a wide range of themes including:

Dealing with bullies

Valuing diversity

Rejecting violence

Mentoring others

Making safe and healthy decisions

Building Resilience:

At Boys Council, we believe that resilience is key to navigating life's challenges. By providing a safe, non-judgmental community where boys can express themselves freely, develop critical thinking skills, and foster a sense of pride and unity, we empower them to become confident, compassionate young men.

Join Us:

Boys Council meets every Monday from 5 pm to 7 pm at YWCA of Southwestern Illinois. Thanks to the support of Alton Housing Authority, transportation is provided for kids from Oakwood and Alton Acres to and from the YWCA, ensuring accessibility for all.