Nonprofit helps kids learn to love learning

The Atlantic Street Center (ASC) is a Seattle nonprofit that helps children, teenagers and their families develop healthy relationships and learn basic academic and vocational skills. It maintains two "family centers," one in New Holly and one in Rainier Beach, and will serve some 600 kids in those communities this year.

As one of 13 agencies receiving support from The Seattle Times Fund For The Needy, ASC will use its share to support its Youth Development Program, which includes an after-school tutoring series and an all-day, academically focused summer camp.

The Youth Development program also sponsors field trips to museums, cultural centers and workplaces to foster in students "a deep love for learning and an appreciation of our culture," says Executive Director Edith Elion.

Workshops and counseling groups also are available for children and teenagers coping with histories of domestic abuse or low self-esteem or who are learning English as a second language.

The agency also provides:

• A mental-health center where licensed therapists help families with mental-health issues and domestic violence.

• A center where immigrant and refugee families can find help learning English and gaining citizenship.

• Support, counseling and regular classes for grandparents who are raising their grandchildren.

• A teenage-parenting program, where young parents can get help and advice on raising healthy children.

• Trained counselors who visit new parents at home to help teach healthy parenting skills.

This year, ASC will serve some 100 more children and teenagers in its after-school and summer programs than it did last year.

An increase in immigrant and refugee families in Southeast Seattle has increased the demand for ASC's services, stretching its $2.8 million annual budget and 54-person staff.

Some 750 students, teachers, neighbors and local social workers volunteer throughout the year as well.

Haley Edwards: 206-464-2745 or hedwards@seattletimes.com