Lighthouse 21st Century

Smiles are contagious at Pierre A. Capdau Early College High School, where Lighthouse Project Coordinator Kevin Scott works with students.

Volunteers of America’s Lighthouse 21st Century initiative for at-risk kids is reaching youth through a partnership with the UNO Charter School Network (UCSN);

Working with UCSN, the Lighthouse has started after school and summer programming at Pierre A. Capdau Elementary/Middle Charter School and Pierre A. Capdau Early College Charter High School.

The goals are to boost academic achievement, character building and social interaction with caring adults. The vision of the Lighthouse is clear: children will achieve when goals are set with high expectations, and the adults who care for them are committed to their academic and social development.

Lighthouse leaders expose the kids to a multitude of cultural enrichment and academic activities. We don’t stop there. Our ambition is to serve the needs of the entire family through academic enrichment, cultural, social, health, and nutritional services—making learning essential to their lives.

Since the storm destroyed its Ninth Ward headquarters, the Lighthouse, one of Volunteers of America’s most popular and effective programs, has been rebuilding through partnerships with local charter schools.

The Lighthouse's philosophy is to work to instill these qualities in youth:

trustworthiness
honesty
citizenship
caring
responsibility
respect
discipline

If we teach our children the skills they need to make positive choices and acquire good academic skills they will grow into responsible, self-supporting adults.

Lighthouse Kids Outcomes Pre-Katrina

Nearly 80% have improved reading scores on standardized tests.
95% have improved math scores.
100% self-identify as being better citizens since enrolling in the program.
100% have no interaction with the Office of Juvenile Justice or their school disciplinary systems

100% have developed athletic coordination.