Courtesy photo.
VENTURA COUNTY — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA’s “Find My Genius” youth summer education program recently received a $20,000 grant from the Sherwood Country Club Charitable Foundation (also known as Sherwood Cares). The funds will go towards supporting the five-week achievement-gap program for low- and moderate-income students who are not reading at grade level. The program is provided at no cost to participants.
“Part of our mission at the foundation is to support children in need of educational assistance,” says George Carney, the foundation’s president. “Find My Genius has proven that it is making a positive impact on the success of the children who go through the program. We are excited and honored to support such an important cause.”
In 2018, the 60 Find My Genius scholars improved their reading levels an average of 2 months and their math levels by 2.5 months. In addition, 91 percent of the parents reported their child gained confidence in themselves and their schoolwork. This year, 120 scholars will participate. Find My Genius runs from July 1 to August 2 on the Conejo Elementary School campus in Thousand Oaks. Participants are nominated by their schools to attend.
Find My Genius is not all work and no play. Scholars participate in outdoor activities, field trips, swimming and arts and crafts.
In addition to the Sherwood Country Club Charitable Foundation, other supporters include Cal Lutheran University, Lennox Foundation, Valentine Foundation and individual donors who attend the YMCA’ annual gala fundraiser each September.
Southeast Ventura County YMCA: The Southeast Ventura County YMCA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building positive relationships, impacting lives and strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living programs and social responsibility. It serves the Conejo Valley, Simi Valley, Westlake Village, Oak Park, Agoura Hills and Moorpark through its three branches. www.sevymca.org
Sherwood Country Club Charitable Foundation: The Sherwood Country Club Charitable Foundation (also known as Sherwood Cares) was established as a non-profit 501(c)3 charitable organization in 2012. The Foundation is known as a significant force in supporting children and families in need of medical, nutritional, educational and safety assistance throughout our community. The Foundation has provided over $1 million in grants to local charitable organizations. Sherwood Country Club members contribute to the Foundation by serving on the board and committees, attending Sherwood Cares-sponsored events and participating in local community service days. www.sherwoodcares.org