CIRI has been buzzing with excitement all summer long!
Our Summer Academy for refugee children, led by our Youth Coordinators and Senior Program Manager, was a huge success. We welcomed students from Bridgeport, and for the first time this year, we celebrated the graduation of 26 Afghan youths, ages 5-13, from our newly opened office in New Haven! The primary goal was to boost students’ confidence in English before they return to school this fall, while also providing a range of fun and engaging summer activities.
This year’s program included Afghan youths speaking a mix of Dari and Pashto, guided by six dedicated educators through a variety of educational and entertaining experiences. The kids enjoyed exciting field trips to the
Connecticut Science Center, Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo, and Urban Air Adventure Parks.
Beyond these excursions, the children engaged in various activities like the book mobile, kickball, field day, dodgeball, arts and crafts, science kits, and bridge building. These events offered a balanced mix of learning and fun, fostering new skills and friendships. Special thanks to our partners: Read to Grow for the Book Mobile, Science United Project / Blossom Hill Foundation for science kits, and Albertus Magnus College for classroom space, gym time, field time, and lunch space.
This summer has been an incredible journey of learning, growth, and fun for our youth. We are immensely proud of each child’s progress and deeply grateful for the dedication of our staff and partners. Here’s to many more successful programs in the future! 🎓🎉