Preparing tomorrow's leaders today

By Thomas AdderelySeptember 9, 2010

Study before play
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

CAMP DARBY, Italy - Camp Darby Child Youth and School Services recognized the 2009/2010 school year "Power Hour" Points winners William Quesenberry, Layton Barney and Natsuki Wittmer Sept. 7.

"Power hour" is a homework assistance program, implemented by Camp Darby in conjunction with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, to help young people come to view homework as an opportunity to learn to work independently, complete projects on time and feel positive about their accomplishments.

Top finisher, William Quesenberry, arrived mid-year and thanks to his dedication to completion of his studies, tutoring others and a variety of learning activities in the center, was able to amass more points than those who were here the entire year.

Layton Barney also had a shortened year; he returned to the United States prior to the end of the school year yet managed to stay quite high on the chart. Natsuki Wittmer faced perhaps the tallest hurdle of them all-attending International School in Florence which means that she, like her fellow ISF students, spends upwards of three hours on a bus commuting to and from school. Through dedication to finishing her own studies in the center and tutoring others, she managed to amass a very high total of points.

In addition to homework help, these staff or volunteers offer age-appropriate activities to stimulate Club members' interest in learning. By explaining the relevance of learning fractions in order to cook a meal, for example or by showing how geography can enable us to enjoy reading the newspaper, volunteers help Club members learn to value the knowledge homework can bring.

Power Hour's long-term goals are to ensure that youth graduate from high school, pursue post-secondary educations and become life-long learners.

"We are grateful to Charity Projects Entertainment Fund/America Gives Back for enabling us to continue utilizing such a high-quality homework assistance program like Power Hour," said Jennifer Kandell, Child Youth and School Services. "Successful homework completion is critical to everyday academic success, many of our children are distracted by a myriad of more palatable alternatives. We try to make homework, and learning in general, a more exciting everyday activity. We provide a safe, quiet area for our youth to complete their assignments with trained and motivated professionals ready to give assistance."

"On behalf of the Charity Projects Entertainment Fund/America Gives Back, we are very proud of our partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America," said Rick Scott, director, CPEF/AGB Board. "Through Power Hour, Clubs can continue their support and commitment to helping children reach the true 'Power of their Potential.'"

In addition to "Homework Helpers," Power Hour offers tips for establishing essential communication with teachers and parents. Research has shown that parental involvement is a must if children are to develop good homework habits.

Power Hour also provides incentives for Club members, rewarding them with "Power Points" and charting their academic progress on a colorful poster that is displayed prominently in the Club. Students interested in participating in this year's program should inquire at their local CYSS.

Related Links:

Camp Darby web site