African Community Education Program

Bringing all African communities of Worcester together to aid children in realizing their dreams of attaining education and succeeding in life.

Description:
ACE is a nonprofit community organization that was established to address the educational problems that the African children face when they come to Worcester. ACE focuses its attention on recent immigrants and refugees, especially those coming from countries of conflict. Many children who come from these unfortunate backgrounds have gaps in education because they were not able to go to school for a number of years or because their schooling was inadequate. In America, these children are placed in school according to their age and not their educational level. Some of our children are 15 years old, in High School and cannot read or do basic arithmetic, despite their wish to learn and succeed in life-these children need our help and support. Here at ACE we hope to engage the educated portion of the African community of Worcester to come and volunteer their time to teach these children. We strongly believe that an organization rooted in the community will be more sustainable and successful. Members of the African community know and understand children's situation better; they are familiar with the educational system formerly available to children in their home counties and are able to better communicate with children based on common ties. However, ACE also places a huge importance on its partnerships with other organizations, especially Worcester Public Schools as well as our wonderful friends from local colleges and universities. We make it our goal to create a team approach to our children's education together we can make their dreams come true!

History:
The African Community Education (ACE) Program was officially established on June 20, 2006. By October of 2006 ACE began its Saturday program at Chandler Magnet opening with 25 students. In February of 2007 ACE received its 501c3 non-profit status from the IRS. ACE is currently located at the Elm Park Community School and serves over 75 students during our Saturday Program alone!

Contact people:

Kaska Yawo, Executive Director, (508) 395-8001, (email) Amy Connery, Volunteer Coordinator, (860) 986-8243, (email) Julia Kilgore, Office Manager, (508) 799-3564, (email)

Address:

23 N. Ashland St Worcester, MA 01609 (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.acechildren.com

Miscellaneous Information

Are any opportunities appropriate for youth ages 18 or under? If yes, what age range?
	Yes, 16-18

Last updated on June 25, 2009