Celebration Held for Salem Area Learning Center

By Thelma Guerrero-Hudson, The Statesman Journal

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When Aileen John moved to Salem last September from the Micronesian Island of Chuuk, she couldn't speak a word of English. "I learn a lot of things at the center," the 11-year-old girl said. "It's helped me learn to speak English, do my homework and tell stories."

John, a fifth-grader at Washington Elementary, made the comments during the grand opening of the Northgate Community Learning Center on April 22. The celebration was attended by more than 60 people, who were treated to a free lunch. It was sponsored by the North Salem Business Association.

The Northgate Community Learning Center is an after-school facility that helps children develop the skills and self-discipline needed to succeed in school. It serves youngsters between the ages of 11 and 14 who attend Washington Elementary, Waldo Middle School, or Hallman Elementary. Students must be in grades fifth through eighth to qualify.

Children are referred to the center by their teachers. Ten volunteers — primarily students from Willamette University, Corban College and Chemeketa Community College — mentor and tutor about 30 youngsters in the after-school program.

One of those helpers is Brendan Morin, who works with students in the center's computer lab.

"It's fun," said Morin, who has a degree in applied science. "I do it because I like helping kids."

Parents also are involved through "Family Nights," a monthly meeting that includes topics such as parent-youth communication; community gardening; nutrition; and, affordable housing.

Through "Homework Power Hour," parents learn how to create a positive homework environment for their children.

Last week's grand opening also featured guest speakers. Linda St. Pierre, principal of Washington Elementary School, told attendees the center was making a "measurable difference" in students' lives. "This program is phenomenal," the principal said. "I've interviewed students to get their impressions of the center. They all said it's helped them get their homework done in time and improved their skills in reading, writing and math."

The center is a collaborative effort of 15 community organizations championed by the Family Systems Investment Consortium, or FSIC, of the Marion County Children and Families Commission. It opened its doors in October.

Jim Seymour, executive director of Catholic Community Services, said the center is "an important component in strengthening families and building healthy communities."

The FSIC said it hopes to open other similar centers in as many as 10 Salem neighborhoods.