Our Impact
Alternatives annually impacts approximately 4,000 children and young people on the Virginia Peninsula. Rather than a maintaining a center-based program, Alternatives embeds high-quality programs into existing child care centers and after-school groups in neighborhoods, schools, and community settings.
In addition, all program activities have secondary benefits that are aligned with increasing critical thinking skills, pre-literacy skills, and the intrinsic motivation of children to academically succeed. Using a variety of programs and activities, Alternatives inspires young people to discover their spark and achieve their inherent potential.
Impact Highlights 2022-2023
How We Make a Difference
For Youth
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A voice & contribution to their community
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Exposure to new, diverse experiences
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New memories & friendships
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Fun, engaging activities
For the Family
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Positive role models & caring adults
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Family access to resources
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Academic support & interpersonal skills
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Safe & affordable programming
For the Community
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Service projects that improve our area
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After-school activities that embrace students’ strengths
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A safer community
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Strong community
partnerships and collaboration
Student Stories
Youth Leadership Academy
"I am in the 7th grade & am a YLA member. As leaders, it’s important that we understand our strengths, but it’s also important that we recognize the areas where we need to grow. In order to know where we need to grow, you have to picture the person you want to become… we call this a vision. My vision for my best self is being able to help others achieve their goals as well as improving myself along the way."
- Asa
21st Century After-School Program
"I am an 8th grader. I enjoy 21st Century Afterschool program because I am learning how to think through my problems. I also like the help that I get from the tutoring. Field trips and spending time with my friends has been fun."
- Zahnia
Youth Leadership Academy
"This is my first year participating in the Youth Leadership Academy. The students of the Leadership Academy have been meeting together since March and have learned a lot! We can't wait to share what we have learned with you."
- Jackson
Youth Leadership Academy
"I am a graduate of the Youth Leadership Academy and am now serving as a volunteer for the program. The reason why I returned to the program as a volunteer is, because I want to help people make Yorktown better place."
- Alicia
More Testimonials
"I like [21st Century] because I like being able to be with my friends after school and that we get to have fun and gives me time to do homework, so I don’t have to at home. [It] makes me happy after school when I’m tired or stressed. [I encourage my peers to join because] it’s fun, they can make new friends, and if they need help with anything there’s always someone there to help them.
– McKenna
"What I like about GPS is that they help us with my math homework, and any type of homework I need help with, they give us snacks and they’re just a good program. I would recommend this program to someone because they would help that person with a lot of stuff and they’re amazing and they care about people."
– Abigail
"I’m in 8th grade attending Andrews GPS program. I enjoy being in this program because it gives you a chance to relax because maybe your home is loud. They provide snacks, field trips, and tutoring. This program’s positive impact on me is meeting new people from different schools. I enjoy meeting new people. I definitely recommend this program because you unwind and reflect about your day."
– Za’Kauree