CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — The Salvation Army of Champaign County will open a new teen after-school program this fall.
The "Ignite" program will open in August, providing a safe and supportive space for students grades 6-12 to receive mentorship, improve academically, build stronger friendships, and learn future-readiness skills, according to The Salvation Army.
The no-cost program will serve up to 50 students. It will run during the school year on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:30-5:30 p.m., and on Wednesdays from 2:30-7 p.m. It will be held at The Salvation Army location at 502 N. Prospect Avenue.
The Salvation Army said the programming focuses on helping students improve grades, develop future readiness, explore careers, build stronger friendships and teamwork skills, and access technology, open gym, and the gaming zone. Faith programming will also be available for students who wish to participate.
"Too often, teens are under-served when it comes to safe and supportive after-school care that offers holistic programming to help them grow academically, socially, physically, and learn new skills that will prepare them for adulthood," Captains Kenyon and Melissa Sivels, corps officers of The Salvation Army of Champaign County, said. "The Ignite program will be an impactful program built upon The Salvation Army's many years of providing youth programming in our community."
Families can complete an interest form here to be notified when official registration opens. Online registration will close on August 12, or until the program is full.
Volunteer opportunities are available for community members interested in providing homework help, mentorship, and leading activities.
Anyone with questions about participating in or volunteering for the program is asked to contact Youth Services Director Brayden Stuckey at Brayden.Stuckey@usc.salvationarmy.org or 217-331-4574.
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