Do you know that there are more than 1,200 children residing in the RHA Public Housing program? What a tremendous resource! In effort to provide on-site options for time spent away from family and school, Reading Housing Authority contracts with the local Olivet Boys and Girls Club to provide comprehensive youth development services. After-school programming includes an emphasis on homework and academic success strategies, character and leadership, substance abuse education and prevention, technology education, and fine arts. Healthy lifestyles are promoted through various sports and recreation activities, including basketball, football and baseball. Partnerships with local scouting troops ensure access to additional services.
The Oakbrook Boys and Girls Club is located directly adjacent to the property and within walking distance. The Glenside Club provides free transportation to the nearby Clinton Street facility. Club services are provided free of charge to RHA youth, although families are encouraged (but not required) to obtain membership for children.
Outside of the school year, summer camping programs include swimming, field trips, educational programming and fitness. Club members with regular attendance through the academic year are guaranteed an opportunity for participation at no cost to the family. Youth residents who do not have regular, academic-year participation will be placed on a waiting list for participation, also at no cost for public housing families. Students who have "graduated" from this camping program receive an opportunity to return in a special "counselors-in-training" program that includes a stipend for participation.