Helping Children Learn is an after-school program designed to help advance refugee children's social and academic skill. The children are identified by teachers at Kennedy Elementary School as those who would benefit from a positive and fun learning environment. The children, grades, 1st through 5th, rinclude the cultures of Liberia, Somalia, Sudan, Bosnia, and Mexico. 

After arrival by school bus at 3:10pm each day, the children engage in physical activity such as jumping rope.  Afterwards they eat a nutritious snack, brush their teeth, engage in a skill building activity, do homework, and finish up with free play time.  At the close of each evening, the CHARISM van brings the children directly to their homes by 5:30pm.

FACES/STRENGTH PROGRAM:  A basic skills and learning program designed to improve literacy and writing skills among underprivileged Middle School youth.  Participants explore avenues of self-expression through poetry, creative writing, and public speaking. 

Each year a different focus of personal self-expression is selected, with a professional from the community leading and guiding youth through the process.  CHARISM has also partnered with FirstChoice Clinic, to educate participants on the importance of making healthy choices.  Together, the two components of the program help build character, leadership, and self-confidence.