Virginia Naturally Partners Database
Apple Ridge Farm Environmental Education Center
Organization details
Contact information
| Organization contact | Peter Lewis |
|---|---|
| info@appleridge.org | |
| Website | www.appleridge.org |
| Address | Jefferson Center #304, 541 Luck Avenue SW Roanoke, VA 24016 |
| Phone | (540) 982-1322 |
| Fax |
This organization offers programs related to the Virginia Standards of Learning.
Description
Our mission is to provide outdoor experiences and academic programs for inner city and at-risk youth. More than 300 young people participate each summer in one- or two-week camping periods, at no cost to the childrenFour main programs implement the Apple Ridge Mission:
The Aspire 2016 Program, a new initiative funded by the Junior League of the Roanoke Valley, works with students who are at risk for academic failure and dropping out of school. One hundred twenty-five third grade students from 5 Roanoke City Elementary schools by providing educational support and after school tutoring and homework assistance. We plan to track these students throughout their schooling until their high school graduation in 2016. Enrichment learning activities, summer camp opportunities and assistance with guidance with higher education accessibility. A unique aspect of this program is the parental and family involvement. Aspire parents are encouraged to volunteer in learning activities and to take advantage of community resources.
The Summer Academic Camp is held annually for eight weeks in the summer from June to August. This program offers needy youth the opportunity to obtain reading skills, receive academic enrichment in several subjects, and enjoy a mountain summer camp experience. In 2006, approximately 345 youth, age 6 to 16, from public housing developments and other low income communities in Roanoke attended the 18th annual Apple Ridge Farm Summer Academic Camp. The objectives of the Camp include reinforcement in Reading, Language Arts and Creative Writing; improvement of proficiency in written and oral communication skills; instruction in physical education, science and environmental education; healthy lifestyle choices and team sports; and an introduction of college preparation and career focus to middle and high school students. Each camper also participates in the ‘Garden Project where he or she stewards a plot of land growing vegetables and flowers used by the camp. The Summer Academic Camp is offered at no cost to campers and their families. A parent night is held prior to the end of camp.
The Reading Adventure Program (RAP) is offered to Apple Ridge Campers and all children of Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority communities to boost their reading skills and thereby increase their chances of academic success. RAP is held at three locations: Melrose and Gainsboro Libraries and the West End Center. The program serves over 100 children weekly.
The Environmental Education Center at Apple Ridge Farm offers Science and nature field trips throughout the region. Since its inception on 1995, over 30,000 student visits have been recorded. The program focuses on developing a direct appreciation of our natural world while teaching and reinforcing the Virginia Standards of Learning. We host third graders from 5 inner city schools through a grant program where they explore and study nature five times a year with us free of charge.
Virginia regions
WCRO
Topics of interest
- Air
- Environmental Management and Pollution Prevention
- Historic Resources
- Land and Open Space
- Waste Management and Recycling
- Water
- Agriculture and Soil
Services and amenities offered
- Access to water
Watersheds
- Roanoke
