Our Programs

At Compass for Kids, we empower underserved students by supporting their academic and social-emotional skills with innovative school-year and summer programs.

Our programs are designed to improve academics and cultivate the crucial life skills our children need to thrive.

Youth Leadership Development Program (YLDP)

The Youth Leadership Development Program (YLDP) is designed to provide middle and high school alumni of Club Compass the opportunity to develop as leaders, and be prepared for college, vocational / trade school, the military, and/or to enter the workforce. The ultimate goal is for these youths to graduate from high school and be ready to achieve their dreams.

Components of this new program, being piloted during the 2023-2024 school year, include:

An evidence-based social-emotional learning curriculum
Life and job skills classes (i.e., résumé and cover letter writing, job interview skills, and making post-secondary plans)
Immediate application of leadership skills while working with elementary students at Club Compass
Service learning projects

*All smiles for Compass’ newest program, YLDP!*

Club Compass

Club Compass is a free community-based program that takes place after school. Club Compass focuses on social-emotional skill development, life skills, enrichment, and reading. Club Compass serves elementary students in Springfield Public Schools – District 186.

Every week Club Compass participants get to:

Develop social-emotional and leadership skills
Spend time with positive, caring adults
Participate in hands-on life skills and enrichment activities
Share a delicious meal alongside volunteers
Receive non-perishable food to take home for the weekend

*Students at the McClernand Club Compass site enjoy a fun and educational visit with our friends from the Springfield Fire Department!*

Camp Compass

Camp Compass is a free, summer learning program for underserved elementary students of Springfield Public Schools – District 186.

Camp Compass is designed to prevent summer learning loss and improve reading and math skills. Its purpose is to reduce the achievement gap and opportunity gaps that exist between low-income students and their higher-income peers. It accomplishes this purpose through a balance of academic and enrichment activities:

Academic

Licensed teachers instruct students in literacy and math.

Small class sizes, differentiated instruction, and licensed teachers are key to stopping summer learning loss and improving core academic skills.

Enrichment

Campers participate in enrichment activities.

Through these activities, kids find hidden talents, develop skills, and have memorable summer experiences they might not otherwise have.