Focus Area: Youth Development

Grant Amount: $10,000

Located in north Minneapolis. Founded in 1954, PCYC runs a youth program, charter school, and the Capri Theater in north Minneapolis. Its after-school program serves 70 mostly African American youth ages 5-12. It is a key partner in the Northside Achievement Zone and has been very focused on helping children achieve academic goals in alignment with NAZ concerns about academic outcomes.

Grant supports PCYC’s Bright Futures Freedom Schools, a free and culturally relevant summer program for 40 students in grades 1-5. The program uses the Integrated Reading Curriculum to prevent summer learning loss, while promoting literacy, self-awareness, civic engagement, and decision-making through activities such as journaling, group discussions, and role-playing. They also offer daily enrichment activities including arts, STEM, social-emotional learning, nutritious meals, and field trips, all supported by trained staff and interns. Caregiver engagement is central to the model, with families participating in weekly Parent Empowerment Nights, volunteering, and building strong connections with staff.