Power Hour-“ Making Minutes Count” helps members between the ages of 6 and 18 be more successful in school by providing homework help and tutoring while encouraging them to become self-directed learners. This interactive homework assistance program helps young people come to view homework as an opportunity to learn to work independently, complete projects in a timely manner, and feel positive about their academic accomplishments. Kids’ progress is rewarded with “Power Points” and by charting their academic accomplishments on a colorful poster prominently displayed in the club.

Unlike assignments completed at school, Power Hour work is conducted within a non-threatening and fun after-school environment using adults or older students, who serve as “Homework Helpers,” to supervise completion of Club members’ homework.

In addition to homework help, these staff or volunteers offer age-appropriate activities to stimulate club members’ critical thinking skills and their ability to relate subject matter to real life scenarios. For example, explaining the relevance of applying math skills to cooking a meal or emphasizing the importance of knowing geographical areas in understanding social and political events around the world, provide wonderful examples of how different academic disciplines relate to one another. Power Hour’s long-term goals are to ensure that youth graduate from high school, pursue post-secondary education/training, and become life-long learners.

The Power Hour program also offers tips for maintaining effective communication skills with teachers and parents. Research has shown that parental involvement is an important component in developing sound and lasting homework habits.

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