STE(A)M
STE(A)M Program Overview
Youth enter Hope For Youth in need of consistency, guidance, and direction in many areas of their lives. When admitted to our residential programs, our goal is to provide each young person with the tools, skills, and support necessary to foster a positive path forward.
One of the ways we achieve this is through a therapeutic, supportive, and motivational education program. Our teachers deliver a differentiated curriculum tailored to the unique needs, learning styles, and life experiences of each child.
Our After-School and Summer STE(A)M Program serves as one of the many spokes in the wheel of services and connection opportunities offered during each youth’s stay, whether short-term or long-term. Through consistent engagement with staff, structured routines, hands-on learning, and exposure to new ideas and environments, youth gain experiences that help shape their future and strengthen their sense of stability, curiosity, and possibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What population does this program serve? Is it located in one place?
All HFY youth are navigating moments of crisis—homelessness, court placement, or other life circumstances that have brought them into care. The STE(A)M program adds an additional layer of support, offering opportunities for youth to learn, explore, and build relationships in a setting that feels different from a traditional classroom. Programming is offered across multiple HFY locations, aligned with the needs and schedules of our residential programs.
What motivates youth to participate?
Youth are excited to participate because the STE(A)M program provides fun, hands-on, engaging activities that feel different from typical school structures. They can:
- Participate in interactive projects
- Engage with peers and staff
- Explore new environments
- Try activities they may never have been exposed to
- Learn through creativity, experimentation, and movement
- Discover new interests, strengths, and career paths
The combination of fun, exploration, and relationship-building motivates youth to return again and again.
How many youth do you expect to serve, and what ages?
Based on recent data:
- Summer STE(A)M typically serves 30–50 residents.
- School-year programming varies and generally serves a smaller, more intimate group depending on availability and residential population.
Participants range from school-age children through older adolescents, consistent with the broader Hope For Youth population.
