Youth development programs mean a brighter future for our kids, so it seems
Midland is heading for a pretty great future. At least, that's according to the
America's Promise Alliance, which just named the Greater Midland area as one of the 100 Best Communities for Young People in the country.
The designation looks at efforts to reduce high school dropout rates and provide other services and support to area youth. It's not the first time Midland has made the list; in fact, it's the fourth straight year.
That's because of its many youth programs that highlight volunteering, leadership, community service, academic and educational excellence. Just a few of those are: Safe Dates, SITCAP, or Structured Intervention for Traumatized Children, Adolescents and Parents, Moms Club, and Kids Club. Those programs have helped almost 20,000 parents and children improve their relationships and support their families.
"We are proud of Greater Midland for being named one of America’s 100 Best communities for kids," says Midland Mayor Maureen Donker. "This award recognizes the hard work of many community members who have dedicated countless hours to making a difference in the lives of our young people."
As far as youth development programs of all stripes go, the Midland delinquency rate has gone down by 35 percent, and the juvenile repeat offender rate for crime has gone down by a whopping 56 percent. That last fact has meant Midland courts have saved about $1.5 million over the last three years.
Another example of a program contributing to the award is the Lunch Box Learners literacy program, pairing elementary students and volunteers to work on reading skills at lunch, which helped 53 kids in eight schools read more than 500 books last school year.
It's not a hollow honor, either; the designation comes with a $2,500 grant to support youth in the Greater Midland area, and access to community development resources through America's Promise Alliance.
Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Maureen Donker, City of Midland
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