When the school year started Diego was very shy and had difficulty getting along with his peers. Being around a large group made Diego feel anxious and unsure, causing him to hold back and distance himself from other kids. Diego is an 81/2 year old little boy who can’t wait to reach 10 so he can be in the double digits.
He struggled with his homework, having an especially difficult time with math. Every night he began his homework and after only ten minutes got frustrated and gave up. At the beginning of the school year, Diego sat by himself to try to complete his work since his parents did not return home from work until bedtime. His teachers took notice of poor grades and lack of focus in math class. They suggested he enroll in the program funded by the United Way of Tri-County, JFS All Stars, an academic after-school program.
Finding his way in a group of students and having to face his dreaded math homework, was at first a challenge for Diego. After a few weeks of meeting after school with dedicated volunteer mentors and staff, Diego soon realized he was not alone. Together, Diego and his mentor Joan worked through his math homework. Joan patiently assured Diego that he could figure it out, walking him though the steps, explaining the problem in a way that Diego was able to understand. As time went by Diego realized that Joan was right - he could actually be good at math!
His success afterschool in a dedicated enrichment program began to have a positive impact in the rest of his school day. Diego started to enjoy playing word and math games with other students. He became more confident, asked questions, participated in special events, and played soccer with kids at recess.
With his new skills and a new found self-confidence, Diego no longer shies away from learning and socializing, but instead, walks into the United Way of Tri-County JFS All Stars with a huge grin, eyes wide, and an excitement to see what else he could accomplish that day.
