All Banyan Programs
Banyan’s youth programs are based on community input and staff expertise, blended with current research on the assets that children need to develop a positive self-image, learn social and life skills, succeed in school, and ultimately overcome the cycle of generational poverty. The leaders of Banyan know that in order for children to thrive and ultimately graduate, go to post-secondary education and succeed as adults, whole families and the larger community must be connected and engaged. This is the successful blend that Banyan has honed over the last 25+ years that has led to outstanding outcomes.
Parents are drawn to Banyan because we are viewed as a safe place where their children can grow and thrive. The programming offered for youth year-round and throughout their educational careers addresses inequities in academic opportunities that are impacting low-income students, particularly students of color. Adult education programs help to elevate both knowledge and confidence. And community outreach and gatherings strengthen the neighborhood building trust and connection.
Youth Development Programs
Banyan inspires young people to invest in themselves in education and community. Youth are prepared to meet the challenges of adolescence and adulthood through programs that cultivate social, emotional and educational growth. Our youth have fun while they develop into committed learners and reconciled people.
ASPIRE
ASPIRE is our intensive high school academic support program that engages youth through the critical high school years at DeLaSalle. ASPIRE is led by trained staff and supported by expert volunteers (engineers and business leaders) to help youth with the homework load and to build relationships and explore careers with business and educational leaders. Students benefit from one-on-one tutoring, mentoring, strong accountability, and parental involvement. This program has resulted in a 100 percent high school graduation rate for more than 15 years.
Higher Ground Scholarship
The Higher Ground Scholarship Program funds tuition for Banyan ASPIRE youth to attend DeLaSalle High School. Attending a high performing school prepares our high school youth for post-secondary education and sets them apart as community leaders.
ELEVATE
ELEVATE is our high school community program youth not enrolled in the ASPIRE program. Three afternoons a week, Banyan provides an onsite study space where staff offer support via homework help, career exploration opportunities, and post-secondary planning help. There is also an opportunity to join the Banyan Scholars program after high school graduation.
Banyan Scholars
ASPIRE and ELEVATE graduates receive support with post-secondary pursuits through the Banyan Scholars program. Our goal is to encourage and provide resources to students throughout college. We connect youth to on-campus resources, provide FAFSA support and financial aid navigation, and help Scholars develop a graduation plan. With the support of Banyan, parents learn to help their first-generation students navigate college, while staff help students connect to internships and other networking opportunities.
Youth
Banyan inspires young people to invest in themselves in education and community. Youth are prepared to meet the challenges of adolescence and adulthood through programs that cultivate social, emotional and educational growth. Our youth have fun while they develop into committed learners and reconciled people.
Other Youth Development Programs
Early Childhood
Opportunities for parents and youth under 5 years old.
THRIVE
Thrive is our after school program for youth in grades K-5.
SOAR
SOAR is our after school program for youth in grades 6-8.
Cool Off Days
Cool Off Days is our summer program for youth in grades K-8.
“I love how Banyan supports families and kids. My kids really enjoy coming here and the educators do a great job.”
“I am so grateful for Banyan. I trust Banyan and the staff here with my children, which is very important to me.”
“Sometimes I think of moving to the suburbs due to the drug and homeless issues but, then I think of Banyan and my neighbors, friends and family and I say – I CAN NEVER LEAVE PHILLIPS.”
“I’m glad I came to Banyan this summer or else I would just be at home bored watching TV instead of doing fun things like crafts.”
“I’m thankful that we have had Banyan to guide us through this college process. We have never done this before, and don’t know anything about college or financial aid. It was good to know that our son had Banyan to help him understand things and explain the steps.”
“Banyan teaches you to stand up for what you know is right, to handle the situation in a respectful manner.”
“I give to Banyan because I know that my gift will go a long way both in impact with the community as well as effectiveness with a well-run organization.”