Afterschool Programs

How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment
before beginning to improve the world.
- Anne Frank

Blackham School Lighthouse Program

Monday-Friday, 3:00-5:30 p.m.

Sponsored by Fairfield University's Health Promotion Center (see Healthcare), the Blackham School Lighthouse Program gives parents the peace of mind that their children are in a safe, nurturing environment each day after school. Volunteers help with homework and arts and crafts projects, and play games and sports with children while facilitating self-confidence and acting as positive role models and mentors.

Boys and Girls Clubs of Bridgeport

Monday-Friday, 3:00-5:30 p.m.

Volunteers can assist in many areas, such as: homework help, arts and crafts, leading gym activities, or assisting with special programs. Weekend and evening opportunities are available including refereeing and coaching.

Bryant School Book Club

Monday, 2:00-3:00 p.m.

Creative and outgoing bookworms needed! Have you always loved to read? Do you want to instill this same passion in the hearts of young students? Then the Bryant School Book Club is just for you. Volunteers facilitate a book club for a group of third graders in the afterschool program. You will read with students and develop activities to facilitate discussion. A wonderful opportunity for aspiring teachers.

Bryant School Pencil Pal Club

Twice per month

You can make the day of a young Bridgeport student just by sending them a letter! Imagine the student’s excitement as he or she reads your letter and then writes you one in return. Not only do you make a friend, but you help children work on their literacy skills and self-esteem without them even knowing it!

Cardinal Shehan Center

Monday-Friday, 3:00-5:30 p.m.,
Monday-Thursday, 5:30-7:30 p.m. (tutoring)
Sat 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Children and teens, ages six and up, go to the Shehan Center because it offers a safe, positive, fun environment. Volunteers may assist with the two afterschool programs (one educational, one recreational) by helping with homework, reinforcing English language skills, playing games and sports with the children, and acting as positive role models. You may also choose to be a volunteer coach for sports such as basketball and flag football.

McGivney Community Center

Monday-Friday, 3:00-5:30 p.m.

Volunteers work with children ages six to fourteen, as tutors in the homework room, assistants in the arts and crafts room and computer room ,or on the basketball court as coaches and teammates. There are also opportunities for greater involvement and leadership: start your own Friday program for the McGivney kids, incorporating your own gifts and talents (e.g. dance classes, theatre, chess club, etc.).

Sunshine Kids

Thursday, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Volunteers assist in a play therapy group and give individual attention to children, ages three to fifteen, who have a close relative living with or who has died from HIV/AIDS. Activities include games, sports, arts and crafts, and more. Student volunteers host the children when they come to campus for holiday parties such as Halloween, Valentine's Day, and Easter.

To apply to any of the above programs,
please contact Wylie Smith Blake.

Back to the Community Service page.