Anabel is a first grader, enrolled in New Futures’ after-school program. Bright and sweet, when Anabel first arrived at New Futures she had extremely low self esteem. Her school teachers were worried by Anabel’s negative feeling about herself, because they kept her from improving, or trying new things.

Anabel was often heard saying “I can’t…” before every new task. Even though she had made many improvements in her reading since enrolling in the after-school program, she would still say, “I can’t read.”

New Futures paired Anabel with a gentle and committed tutor. Anabel’s tutor gave Anabel her full attention, praised her for trying new things, and complimented her improvements in reading. Anabel now takes risks, and is reading with confidence. Anabel has also ceased saying what the kids call the “c” word: can’t.

New Futures pairs children with caring, compassionate adults, and allows children like Anabel to see themselves in new, positive ways. Because we believe in a world where children have the support and encouragement to change “I can’t” into “I can.”

To read more inspiring stories about the kids and families of New Futures, visit our Story Archives.