Charleston, S.C. — The Community Resources Center’s Summer Enrichment Program will conclude on Monday with a special series of field trips, including a visit to the International African American Museum (IAAM). The field trips, which are part of the six-week summer program, aim to provide underprivileged students with valuable opportunities to explore STEM, life skills, and culture.
Partnership with Charleston County School District
The Charleston County School District (CCSD) has partnered with the Community Resources Center for transportation, and the county has generously contributed $10,000 towards the enrichment program. In addition, the center is covering the admission costs for students to visit IAAM, making this unique experience accessible to all participants.
Louis Smith, Executive Director of the Community Resources Center, shared his excitement about the program’s finale, highlighting the importance of providing these opportunities to students who might not otherwise have the chance to explore such cultural and historical landmarks.
Program Focus on STEM, Life Skills, and Culture
The Summer Enrichment Program is designed to give underprivileged students the opportunity to engage in activities related to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) while also teaching life skills and providing exposure to African American culture and history. Smith emphasized that many of these students, particularly those from rural areas like North Charleston and Adam’s Run, may not have the resources or transportation to visit museums or experience living history firsthand.
“A lot of these children don’t know the history. A lot don’t get an opportunity to go, especially in our rural areas, to go out and witness living history,” Smith said. “We are deeply appreciative to the Charleston County School District and the county for making this a reality for a lot of our students.”
Field Trips to IAAM and Local Parks
The final days of the program include four field trips: two to local county parks and two to the International African American Museum. These trips aim to deepen the students’ understanding of history, culture, and the importance of community connection.
Smith emphasized that embracing cultural sites like IAAM is essential to building a stronger community. “It’s important to me because this is how we fight gun violence. This is how we communicate and connect our community as one,” he said. “This is how we teach where people are, where we come from and where we’re going.”
The Summer Enrichment Program not only offers students access to important cultural sites but also empowers them with knowledge that will help them build brighter futures. The collaboration between the Community Resources Center, Charleston County, and the Charleston County School District is a testament to the community’s commitment to providing meaningful opportunities for its youth.
