KID power proposes a comprehensive youth mentoring and enrichment program to address the academic, social, and emotional challenges at-risk youth face in washington, DC and montgomery county, maryland

The initiative targets youth living in under resourced communities with high rates of poverty, crime, and systemic inequities. KID power will implement a comprehensive mentoring model consisting of several phases: school-based group mentoring for elementary students, a mix of group and one-on-one mentoring for middle school students, and one-on-one community-based mentoring for high school students. This model expands on the organization's current programs, which include an afterschool program for elementary students and a community-based mentoring program for high school students. Over the 3-year grant period, the project will support youth from grades 3 through 12, adapting to their developmental needs and promoting resilience, self-efficacy, and academic success. Expected outcomes include improved relationship skills, enhanced community engagement, improved academic performance, increased school engagement, enhanced social-emotional skills, and reduced risky behaviors. By fostering strong, supportive relationships with mentors, building social capital, and integrating youth into their communities, KID power aims to mitigate the effects of toxic stress and adverse childhood experiences, which are prevalent among the target population.