| Keith Jackson’s P.A.R.K. Positive Atmosphere Reaches Kids (PARK) was founded by former University of Oklahoma All-American and NFL star Keith Jackson. It was implemented in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1995 and expanded to Oklahoma City this year. PARK is an innovative after-school and summer program that offers intensive educational and life-skill experiences along with cultural awareness for at-risk youth between the school years of 8th and 12th grade. These youth are nominated by teachers, and they are identified as students who have shown a desire to learn but are not performing up to their potential. The program includes academic workshops, computer tutorial sessions and cultural educational opportunities. Each year, a new class of 8th graders begins and the previous class becomes their mentors while continuing on with the program. Eventually, all five grades will be represented, and groups will "graduate" from the program after five years. PlaySmart, through Frank Ille (PlaySmart Director), has developed a strong strategic partnership with PARK in Oklahoma City. PlaySmart has committed time, financial resources - and t-shirts! - to the PARK cause in Oklahoma. We’re looking forward to continuing to work together with Keith Jackson and the good people at PARK. |