Sumter's after-school programs offer enriching experience for youth each day

National Association of Elementary School Principals reports children spend an average of 80% of their days out of school. And they encourage parents to make that time productive.

Researchers have found that after-school programs have valuable resources that aim to enhance the overall development and well-being of children of all ages. They provide academic support, enrichment activities, workforce development opportunities, mentoring relationships and more.

And the impact goes beyond a great way to pass the time. A 26-year-long study by a University of California professor found that adults who participated in after-school programs were more likely to graduate and pursue higher education, earned higher incomes, secured better jobs and were more engaged in their communities.

Sumter offers several after-school programs that provide students with an educational, supportive and impactful space to spend their afternoons.

H.Y.P.E After School Program

Helping Youth Pursue Excellence, or H.Y.P.E, After School Program started in 2002 with support from Jehovah Missionary Baptist Church and Clemson Extension. The program grew from seven students from each elementary and middle school in the former Sumter School District 17 in 2005 to 150 students enrolled in the program with 35 children on the waiting list in 2006.

Today, H.Y.P.E. has a total of 10 sites that serve children in the city and county limits of Sumter.

Students are transported to each site by school buses and receive a hot meal upon arrival. They receive academic enrichment, tutoring and engage in recreational activities with certified teachers and college mentors. The program operates Mondays through Fridays from 2:30 until 5:30 p.m. during the school year.

For more information or to register, visit www.mhnlifecenter.org.

Clemson Extension 4-H Club

Clemson University Cooperative Extension 4-H Youth Development uses "a learn-by-doing approach to help youth gain the knowledge and skills to be responsible, productive and contributing members of society." This is accomplished by creating safe and inclusive learning environments, involving caring adults and utilizing the expertise and resources of Clemson University and the national land-grant university system.

4-H Youth Development focuses on several program areas, including agriculture and animals, civic engagement, healthy living, natural resources and science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM.

Sumter has several 4-H clubs in areas of interest for students, including coding, STEM, horseback riding and more. For more information, contact Cindy Foley at (412) 973-1381, email cgfoley@clemson.edu or visit www.clemson.edu/extension/4h/county/sumter.html.

YMCA Afterschool Program

YMCA's Afterschool program provides homework help, arts and crafts, and more. It offers transportation for many elementary and middle schools in the county, including Liberty STEAM Charter School. There is also a drop-off option for homeschooled children and those from other schools.

The program runs from school district dismissal times to 6 p.m. Fees also cover all-day care on teacher workdays and scheduled early dismissal days.

Registration is open throughout the year with limited space.

For more information, visit YMCA at 510 Miller Road or call (803) 773-1404.

Sumter County Library

Each branch of Sumter County Library offers programs and clubs of various topics and activities, fit for children of all ages. These programs are meant to introduce youth to new skills and interests, engage with other young minds with similar interests and are designed to be beginner friendly.

To see a schedule of events, visit www.sumtercountylibrary.org/calendar. For other services and resources provided by the library, visit www.sumtercountylibrary.org or call (803) 773-7273.

Sumter County Gallery

of Art art classes

Sumter County Gallery of Art offers a variety of classes for youth and adults during the school year from September to May.

For more information, visit 200 Hasel St. from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday or call (803) 775-0543.

Salvation Army Red Shield Youth Center

The Salvation Army offers after-school and summer programming - "A place for discovery, friendship, and growth."

According to the organization's website, "As part of The Salvation Army's Red Shield Youth Centers network, we provide after-school and summer enrichment programs that help youth build friendships, explore interests, and develop real-world skills in an environment rooted in positive values and community support. Our programs are designed to nurture the whole child - academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually - through engaging activities like tutoring and homework support, arts and creative projects, sports and fitness, leadership opportunities, and special community events. With trained staff and caring mentors, we strive to empower every young person who walks through our doors to reach their full potential."

The local center is at 14 Kendrick St., Sumter. Call (803) 775-5006 about its programs for students.