Pathways For Youth
Pathways for Youth is a comprehensive and caring after-school program for children in grades 1 through 12. The program is the cornerstone of the Presbyterian Community Center’s commitment to keeping children in school through graduation.
Individual tutoring by community volunteers, mentoring, on-site counseling, life-skills training, field trips, cultural and academic enrichment opportunities, and community service activities help children attain the social and academic competency necessary to succeed in school and in life. Pathways activities are structured to provide students with Developmental Assets, the Search Institute's 40 critical factors for healthy growth and development. In addition to the Presbyterian Community Center personnel, Pathways is also staffed with professional counselors from Family Service of Roanoke Valley and trained community volunteers
After School Program
Pathways for Youth offers a safe and nurturing environment for students in grades 3 through 12. The program provides one-on-one tutoring to inner-city children four times a week and homework assistance and enrichment activities five days a week. Tutors work to develop a positive relationship with Pathways students by offering friendship and encouragement. Recreation, cultural enrichment, adult mentoring, leadership development, and community service experience are also offered as part of Pathways. The program includes:
• Academic enrichment
• Computer labs and internet access
• Field trips for education, cultural enrichment, recreation, and fun!
• Healthy after-school meals or snacks daily
• TOP and Life Skills Training programs teaching good decision-making and lowering risky behaviors
• Creative writing and other fine arts activities
• Christian devotionals and storytelling
• Interest clubs including cooking, drama, and fitness
• On-site counseling in partnership with Family Services of Roanoke Valley
Pathways-Phase II
PCC Pathways seeks to make a lasting difference in the lives of children from 1st grade through middle school. When the student reaches high school age, Phase II continues to support by offering academic enrichment, leadership development, service-learning, and life skills training. Students participate in a variety of group and individual activities. When the Phase II student graduates from high school he/she is eligible to access the PCC Higher Education Fund for scholarships toward their college education, guaranteeing every Pathways student a path to the education that most appropriately meets their needs.
Family Activities
Each month during the school year, Pathways hosts a “Family Night” dinner and activities for parents and children. The Presbyterian Community Center, along with host churches and partner agencies, provides hospitality, educational speakers, and a meal during family night events.
Parent Involvement
Parents of Pathways youth have the opportunity to participate in classes and informational programs that will benefit their family as a whole. These include but are not limited to nutrition, spiritual development, and financial literacy. Parents are expected to attend monthly parent meetings and help when needed at other PCC Pathways events.
On-Site Counseling
Pathways children and youth are eligible for professional counseling and case management services through our partnership with Family Services of the Roanoke Valley. Counselors and prevention specialists help youth and families cope with the social and economic issues of growing up in the inner-city and help reduce risk-taking behavior associated with negative peer pressure, economic stress, and families struggling to make ends meet.
Counseling for Pathways for Youth funded by the City of Roanoke’s Gun Violence Prevention Commission.