Mighty Writers El Futuro Kennett Expands Support for Youth

Mighty Writers El Futuro Kennett, located at 121 Willow St, Toughkenamon, PA, has made significant strides since its inception in 2019. The organization, an extension of a Philadelphia-based parent group, provides essential support to children of all ages through bilingual after-school writing workshops and a range of other programs.

In an interview with Yakquelin Garduno, the Senior Director of Mighty Writers El Futuro Kennett for the past two years, the organization’s dynamic response to the needs of the Hispanic community became evident. While the primary focus remains on after-school writing activities, the organization recognized that addressing basic needs such as food and clothing was crucial for fostering a sense of security among families.

Mighty Writers has established a client-choice food pantry, allowing families to weekly receive fresh produce, meat, dairy, and other essentials. Garduno emphasized the cultural significance of food within the Hispanic community, stating, “The Hispanic culture likes to cook. They start with whole foods and aren’t familiar with serving food to their families from canned goods.” The pantry benefits from support provided by the Chester County Food Bank, which supplies a refrigerator, freezer, and regular deliveries of nutritious foods.

As the new school year begins, the after-school programming is set to start on September 8, 2023. Elementary students will engage in activities designed to promote self-expression in both their native language and English. These sessions also include artistic projects that honor their Latino heritage while integrating social-emotional learning components such as mindfulness and empathy.

The organization will also revive its “Mommy and Me” program on Tuesday afternoons, offering mothers a space to connect and share healthy parenting practices. Additionally, a five-week College Prep Program is available for Hispanic students from grades nine through twelve. Garduno highlighted the program’s role in linking students with local college prep initiatives, recognizing that many of their families lack prior college experience.

In response to a noticeable presence of 13 to 19-year-old boys not attending school, Mighty Writers partnered with Migrant Education to provide opportunities for enrollment. The newly launched “Mighty Teens Program” focuses on teaching English and includes resources related to mental health and career development.

To broaden students’ horizons regarding future employment opportunities, Mighty Writers has introduced a five-week course dedicated to trades. This initiative aims to showcase various in-demand crafts, providing students with accessible pathways to sustainable employment.

Mighty Writers is committed to nurturing the whole child, equipping them with resources to become contributing citizens. Garduno, who grew up in the same neighborhood, expressed her passion for supporting youth. “I know how easy it is to get off track, so I am happy to be part of offering alternatives and ways to reach one’s potential,” she said. “It is self-gratifying to see the progress the students make in a short period of time and how much their families want their children to succeed.”

The book “The Story of Kennett – Shaping the Future One Child at a Time” by Joan Holliday and Bob George is available for purchase on Amazon and at local retailers, including the Mushroom Cap. For more information, interested parties can contact Joan Holliday at [email protected].