Featured Educational Programs

The Healthy Neighborhoods Healthy Families initiative partners with faith-based organizations, community development organizations, youth-serving nonprofits and local public schools to focus on creating positive health outcomes in the community. Programs support affordable housing; workforce development and employment opportunities; health and wellness; neighborhood safety; and improved educational outcomes for children and families.

SPARK: Kindergarten Readiness

SPARK helps prepare children for kindergarten by working with families, schools and the community to engage up to 80 preschool age children per year. Through a home visit each month, children receive a new book, a lesson activity and educational supplies, and participate in learning opportunities — all with the goal of increasing the child’s success in school and life.

The program also helps develop parents as children’s first — and best — teachers. Ninety six percent of children were kindergarten ready after completing the program, compared to 32 percent before.

For more information email SPARK@NationwideChildrens.org.

Upward Bound Math and Science

Nationwide Children’s Upward Bound Math and Science (UBMS) aims to increase the number of students who pursue postsecondary education in math and science. Students will receive support through the academic year program, including mentor-tutoring and Saturday morning sessions with cultural and career exposure and hands-on learning. A six-week summer session will provide students with a college-going experience and expanded experiential-learning and work-study opportunities.

Mentoring Programs

More than 150 Nationwide Children’s employees serve as mentors at neighborhood schools and in partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Columbus and the Harmony Project. Mentors meet weekly with their students and provide homework help, reading support and guidance.