REF Programs & Services
At the Russell Education Foundation, we offer a secure setting where our students can learn, develop, and flourish. Our services are structured around two key pillars: Education and Life Skills, aimed at equipping children with the necessary tools to navigate the challenges of the real world confidently.
EDUCATION PILLAR
Our Education program aims to bridge the achievement gap for underserved students by offering tutoring and academic enrichment to over 800 students annually across our nine after-school centers. Certified teachers lead small groups of kindergarten through 5th-grade students, providing additional support in English and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering Arts & Math). Using project-based techniques, our teachers make learning engaging and enjoyable, resulting in remarkable outcomes. Additionally, REF hosts an eight-week summer program designed to prevent learning loss and boost motivation.
LIFE SKILLS PILLAR
Beyond academic support, REF offers mentoring sessions aimed at equipping students with essential Life Skills. These sessions feature community volunteers, including political leaders, educators, professional athletes, board members, and business leaders, who visit our centers to share their expertise on various life skill topics. Volunteers discuss their educational backgrounds and share personal experiences to inspire students and highlight diverse career paths.
Presented by
11.3 Million
Over 80% of parents in communities of concentrated poverty agree that afterschool programs helps them keep their jobs.
kids are alone and unsupervised from 3 to 6 p.m.
EDUCATION PILLAR
$9
For every child in an afterschool program in a community of concentrated poverty, two are waiting to get in.Source: After School Alliance
For every $1 invested in afterschool programs, $9 is saved by improving kids’ academic performance.
SOCIAL SKILLS BUILDING
Social-emotional learning is integrated into both our school-year and summer programs on a daily basis. We incorporate components focused on building social skills throughout our program, following the Promoting Alternative Thinking Strategies (PATHS) curriculum. Through interactive and creative activities, we aim to foster positive self-esteem, encourage pro-social peer relationships, and promote good citizenship among our students.
CORLISS RUSSELL CHRISTMAS PARTY
Each year, REF hosts a holiday party in December, during which all participating families are provided with dinner and students perform a special theatrical program. Each child
receives two (2) unwrapped toys for their homes.
Presented by
Social Behavior
Personal Safety
LIFE SKILLS PILLAR
Goal Setting
Current events, like votingand environmental issues
Mentoring
REF facilitates mentoring programs where experienced individuals from various fields guide and inspire students, helping them navigate challenges and explore potential career paths.
Advocacy
REF advocates for policy changes and resources that support educational equity and opportunity for all children, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met.
Education & Training
REF provides education and training opportunities for students, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary for personal growth and success in their academic and professional endeavors.
Life Skills & More
REF prioritizes the development of life skills in students, offering programs and activities designed to foster resilience, problem-solving abilities, and emotional intelligence essential for navigating the challenges of everyday life.
Commitment
REF is deeply committed to empowering underserved communities through education, tirelessly working to provide students and families with the support and resources they need to thrive.
