The Bailey Foundation
May 9, 2022
Not everyone has the same access to nutrition, enrichment programs, or community involvement. To bridge this gap, The Bailey Foundation provides a variety of services for children and families in the greater St. Louis area. Keep reading for an overview of our programs and learn how you can get involved.
Through our after-school programs, kids have the chance to connect with other children, grow social skills, and discover new interests. The performing arts program is composed of former and current performing arts professionals. This allows kids to pursue their passion in dance, theater, music, and visual arts. Here is what students should expect to learn:
The virtual after-school enrichment program, The Saint Louis Hollywood Academy (TSHA), gives children who may not have the ability to participate in other programs a space to learn. This program is open for children from elementary school through high school. Students build trust with educators and learn how to connect with and navigate the world around them through theater, music, dance, and visual arts instruction.
During the summer months, children need access to activities that focus on their overall growth and wellbeing. That’s why we started a summer camp program, ensuring all children stay connected with others and involved with their community. A blend of performing art and developmental activities keeps attendees engaged until school reopens.
Youth Biz teaches entrepreneurial skills to children from the 6th to 12th grade. They’ll go from brainstorming new ideas to marketing their products and selling to customers. Lifelong skills include critical thinking, creative problem-solving, using effective communication skills, and being a team player.
At-risk boys in middle school, junior high, and high school are welcome to join Finally Safe. This is a safe environment that empowers young men through workshops. They gain self-confidence and career-building skills, learn the importance of financing, and receive social and emotional support and mentorship.
Of course, with any activity, you need energy. We understand that people get energy through the foods they eat. That’s why we distribute food five times a week in various St. Louis neighborhoods for free. Donations from grocery stores, food banks, and produce vendors, and working with food vendors to prepare the meals makes this possible. Those interested in signing up and receiving fresh boxes of produce, milk, and a variety of meals should text “FUNMEALS” to 741-21.
A fresh, healthy meal should be accessible to everyone. For families that don’t have the transportation necessary to go to food distribution locations, The BaileyFoundation partners with DoorDash to deliver free meals and groceries to low-income families. After all, ensuring kids have access to food is essential for their success.
Children need healthy food throughout the day. In school, they learn new concepts, stay active in gym class, and play with friends during recess. Kids also have after-school clubs, arts programs, and sports. Then, when class is out for the summer, summer camps start up. All of this was taken into consideration when creating the Fresh Fun Meals program. The Bailey Foundation partners with schools and summer camps to provide nutritious breakfasts, afternoon meals, snacks, and summer meals, all free of charge.
At The Bailey Foundation, we partner with service leaders. This includes schools and their districts, similar nonprofit organizations that aid in the growth and development of youth, and community initiatives that enrich the youth with healthy outlets in the performing arts. If this sounds like you, we’d love to work together. Contact us today!