Daniel was having a terrible time in fourth grade. He could only read first grade books. A highly energetic student, he also had trouble focusing in class. To make matters worse, he was being taunted by his classmates for his creativity.

Daniel’s mom was struggling, too. Recently divorced because of domestic violence incidents, the family’s resources were very limited. Daniel had to share the household’s only winter coat with his sister.

Daniel’s mother heard about New Futures from a neighbor, and enrolled Daniel in our After School Program. His tutor was a patient high school girl who lives in the same apartment complex. The pair had Daniel reading at grade level by the end of the year.

With the chance to explore his creative side without judgment, Daniel thrived. And, some of the boys who taunted Daniel enrolled in a New Futures hip-hop dance class so New Futures staff was able to intervene and help resolve the conflict.

Daniel’s mother also worked with our staff for help with translating and other services. Through New Futures she has become part of a community task force that is finding solutions to a mold problem in the apartments. And, finally, a New Futures Family Advocate gave Daniel’s mom a gift card so Daniel could have his very own winter coat.

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