Success Story: Youth FORCE Program at Gulfstream Middle Inspires Rashaud to Succeed
The Children's Services Council of Broward County funds Youth FORCE afterschool programs for middle school students that allow them to explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) curricula as well as engage in activities that enhance their understanding of the community they live in and beyond.
A young man taking full advantage of these opportunities is Rashaud Marcelin, an 8th grader at Gulfstream Middle School who participates in the Memorial Healthcare Systems managed program. Ambitious, articulate and very enthusiastic, Rashaud is a leader and role model to his fellow students. On a recent visit to his school, Rashaud took a visitor on a tour while talking about his intentions of becoming either a school administrator or a law enforcement officer. He later introduced the Boy Scouts troup he leads and the technology club he integrates. "This program has really helped me with academics, but also to become more focused and understanding of others," he said.
Of his passion for helping others, his stepfather Edward and mother Lathoya said: "There is nothing he would not do for someone asking for help. The Youth FORCE program has helped Rashaud and his sister with their school work." Youth FORCE staff has also helped connect the family with resources to help pay utility bills and other expenses.
Youth FORCE
Youth FORCE programs provide at-risk middle school students with year-round services designed to improve Self-Esteem, Develop Skills; and Increase Access to Community Resources in order to promote both current and future successes.
Each Youth FORCE program includes case management, cultural enrichment activities, counseling, academic services and supports, pregnancy and drug prevention education, and community service learning activities. Additional program components may include mentoring, employability skills training, health and fitness activities, life skills instruction and violence prevention.
For more information on Youth FORCE programs or any other programs funded by the CSC, visit www.cscbroward.org and search for "Funded Program Directory."
The Children's Services Council of Broward County is an independent taxing authority which was established by a public referendum on September 5, 2000, and reauthorized via referendum on November 4, 2014, which, through Public Act, Chapter 2000-461 of the laws of Florida, authorized the Council to levy up to 0.5 mills of property taxes. The role of the Council is to provide the leadership, advocacy and resources necessary to enhance children's lives and empower them to become responsible, productive adults through collaborative planning and funding of a continuum of quality care. To learn more about programs and services the Children's Services Council funds, please call (954) 377-1000.
Above content provided by Children's Services Council of Broward County.
