Four local organizations are transforming education in the Aurora area through $2 million in Dunham Foundation grants through the Ready for the Future Initiative. Launched in September 2024, the initiative is targeted to reach 3,000 students through academic and social-emotional support programs:
West Aurora School District: Littera Education provides personalized one-on-one tutoring for elementary students.
Lutheran Child and Family Services who is collaborating with Creating Space, and Talented Tenth on comprehensive middle school support.
The Wong Center engages students through its STEM Ignition robotics program.
Urban Youth Ministry delivers individualized tutoring services.
These programs, delivered during and after school hours, address learning gaps and provide students with essential academic and social-emotional skills. Early results show strong engagement across all programs.
The early success of students working with tutors and mentors signals a transformative educational initiative for youth in East and West Aurora School districts. The photos above showcase these programs, from hands-on robotics equipment to active learning sessions across our partner organizations.