Program Feature - True North

This month’s Program Spotlight is shining on the True North AmeriCorps Program, facilitated by the Duluth Area YMCA sponsored by the Corporation for National and Community Service and ServeMinnesota. This program was put in place to focus on enhancing the future success of at-risk children up north by increasing the number of positive adult role models in the children’s lives.

Members facilitate academic enrichment activities to get kids excited about learning and outdoor education in partnership with Youth Outdoors Duluth. They work with students in grades K-5 who struggle academically, both as a group and individually. True North members have started many different types of clubs, invited guest speakers, planned holiday parties and field trips, and many other activities that promote healthy development. They help get children involved with volunteer opportunities to fulfill the AmeriCorps goal of engaging all citizens with community service. Members provide these enrichment activities, along with academic help, and social-emotional support to students outside of school time.

There are 35 full-time members currently serving at 23 locations including elementary schools, youth-serving agencies, and community centers throughout the Duluth and Proctor area. They support approximately 1000 at-risk children annually.

To learn more about True North AmeriCorps, check out their website at http://truenorthamericorps.org.
 

*Fun Fact: the picture at the top is from True North's event on MLK Day at the Twin Ports' MLK Day Tribute March*