Our Kids VIP After School Program, created in the late 90's, was a response to the call to nurture children in a safe and caring environment after school. The children are attended by trained leaders at the Beach Elementary School in Fort Myers Beach. VIP, the acronym known as Very Important Person underscores our intention to foster self confidence in children. VIP accentuates the purpose of our program, V - for a Vision of children being cared for in a loving environment, I - for intervention, without adult supervision, children may become involved in unsafe and destructive behaviors. P - Prevention, the most important element of the program is to provide a disciplined environment. Children receive help completing homework, provided activities and games which foster creativity.  Fridays, the VIP children have an outing either on the beach or at the pool.

The VIP program directed and administered by the New Church of Southwest Florida enjoys the support of many Fort Myers Beach community fund raisers throughout the year. VIP director Ms Debbie Dunlap works closely with Reverend Gabriella and a group of volunteers who devote their time to provide a safe and caring environment for the children.

Our program agenda: arrival at 2:15, signing in, homework, snacks, playtime and creative projects and parental pick up of children on or before 5 pm.

On homework days, usually Monday through -Thursday, we follow the routine mentioned above, but on Fridays and days before school vacations, children do not have homework. Those days are designated play, beach or pool days. The beach and Bay Oaks Pool are short walks from the Beach Elementary School in Fort Myers Beach.

The number of children attending the program varies from day to day.  Our average attendance fluctuates between 9-10 children but on some occasions we have as many as 14 children. Grade levels range from kindergarten to 4th grade with more kindergartners than any other grade level. Our policy is to have one volunteer with Ms Debbie or Rev. Gabriella.

Currently, we are looking for volunteers for Thursday but other days negotiable.

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Volunteers must undergo a background check and participate in observation and training.