Outreach Programs

The Clubs offer pre-college, career guidance and lifestyle programs in the Clubs, schools and community targeted toward middle and high school kids.

Educational Talent Search and Upward Bound target low-income and potential first-generation college students. The programs focus on achieving academic success through intense curriculum combined with personalized support and daily guidance. The high grade-to-grade progression, graduation and college enrollment rates speak to the impact the program has on the scholastic success of participants. To learn more about ETS download the application or contact Deborah Cregger at (817) 923-1841. To learn more about Upward Bound download the interest application or contact Lisa Cantu at (817) 834-4833.

Comin’ Up is a progressive gang-intervention program that serves more than 1,000 gang-involved youth between the ages of 13-24 years old in Fort Worth communities. In partnership with the city of Fort Worth, the program provides needs-based services and activities in an effort to reduce gang violence and influence positive change. In 2010, Comin’ Up was responsible for 30 truces between rival gangs and 232 life changes which include holding employment, completing job training or certification programs, returning to school, joining the armed forces or completing a semester of college. For more information contact Melvin Carter at (817) 877-3729. Download the Comin' Up referal form.

Career Launch encourages Comin’ Up participants to assess their skills / interests, explore careers, pursue high school graduation and college enrollment and prepare to join the ever-changing workforce. In 2011, 70 percent of gang-involved youth who participated in Career Launch received specialized job training, and of those 75 percent received employment. For more information contact Sherry Hudson at (817) 877-3729.

Too Good For Drugs explains the health risks concerning alcohol, tobacco and drug use to youth. The program also focuses on self-esteem, goal setting, positive decision making and peer pressure refusal skills. For more information, contact Heather Brizendine, (817) 944-7824.

Be Great Graduate offers advanced support to youth who are at risk for dropping out of school. The program focuses on the development of academic, emotional and social skills needed to achieve academic success.

Parenting Wisely provides parents with the necessary skills for raising healthy, respectful children. The program is proven to increase communication and family bonding, as well as reduce problem behaviors. For more information, contact Heather Brizendine, (817) 944-7824.