Success Stories

Ethan’s Story

Ethan is a 12-year-old boy that presents with learning deficits, negative self-confidence and co-dependency on academic skills and problem solving. Last summer he struggled to get through a full day and was often picked up early due to his behavior and ability to remain engaged and in control.

This year Ethan has participated in Khan Academy, reading buddies, DEAR and STEAM. Ethan is now able to complete homework at the club, attend to small group reading, and behave during quiet reading center time! His mother has commented on his behavior at home improving and she also noted he was making social gains by having more friends and less conflicts with his siblings.

We believe that our methods and mixture of academics, mentoring, and stable positive environment help so many youngsters just like Ethan every day!

Sam Story

Sam is a 21-year-old staff member he said he couldn’t remember the last time he chose to pick up a book during his personal free time. At first, he said he thought drop everything and read was silly and should only be for the kids. Once he understood that by him modeling reading a book in a positive way and how it influences children, he became more open to the process.

Sam has grown to look forward to this daily time and says that he feels like it is almost like therapy—“it’s a nice break in the day for me although I’m still working, we can all just chill and relax together, I think everyone should do this.”

Elyce’s Story

Fifth grader, Elyce was very shy entering the program a year ago. She had difficulty relating to other students in her group, resulting from being home-schooled since the pandemic. Using her laptop to engage in the ECF Khan Math program, which she was very good at, together with reading and music activities became the game changer for her. We realized she had incredible, untapped music talent. She used her love of music to increase her math abilities and lessons in composing and song-writing to elevate, what is now a LOVE of reading. Team building via being a part of the BBTM Hopes and Dreams Band has created a successful turnaround for Elyce. Together ECF and BBTM Education thru Music, Inc have provided Elyce with unstoppable success!

Bethany and Mackenzie’s Story

Twins Bethany and Mackenzie reinforce their learning from the school year, better preparing them for the upcoming fourth grade and ensuring they are well-equipped for academic success. They reached familiar and proficient levels with most of their exercises, demonstrating a solid grasp of key concepts and skills. Their progress was evident as they confidently tackled a variety of tasks and challenges, reflecting their improved understanding and application of the material. These exercises have helped to prepare them effectively for more advanced topics and upcoming academic demands.

Eva’s Story

Eva’s journey from setbacks to success is inspiring. After facing bullying, academic struggles, and personal loss, she’s now thriving with the support of her Friend, Slade, and her caregiver.

At our 5K, Eva proudly shared that she’s helping her younger sister with homework—a testament to her growth and leadership. A huge thank you to our partner Education Comes First for contributing to our Reading and Math Enrichment program and making successes like Eva’s possible and helping to #CloseTheGap!

Enoch’s Story

At the start of the Summer Math and Reading Program, Enoch, a rising 1st grader, was struggling with math, feeling overwhelmed and discouraged by the difficulties of the subject. He felt sad and frustrated after counting because he struggled where other kids in his group excelled. His parents enrolled him in our program and with the help of the ECF grant, we had a lot of tools to help him feel confident. He attended four times a week for three weeks. The first week, he was struggling to count to 100 and lacked quick math facts of adding and subtraction.

In the education room, Enoch was introduced to a range of supportive tools and strategies. Our educational specialist provided group tutoring sessions where he received attention and guidance, allowing him to address his specific challenges. Interactive learning materials and engaging math games made the subject more accessible and enjoyable. There was a supportive peer environment where Enoch could collaborate with fellow students, building both his confidence and problem-solving skills.

By the end of the summer, Enoch’s progress was remarkable. He not only was proficient at his level but asked for more time in the education room. He gained a stronger grasp of math concepts, but he also developed a love of learning. He learned a lot about adding by twos, was able to count to 150 and even learned two digital subtractions. Stories like these are what make ECF so beneficial to each student that we help and make sure they are going home with a smile and the confidence to do even better.