Each summer, the Smyth County Teaching Alternative Program (TAP) provides a summer enrichment program for youth in our county. This included continued learning throughout the months when school isn’t in session, as well as other activities such as arts and crafts, swimming, and more. Physical, occupational, and speech therapy are also provided to the children who benefit from it. Breakfast and lunch are provided to the nearly 170 young people involved in the program, ranging from 7 months to 18 years old.
To provide support to this great program, the Student Government Association at BRJC instituted a center-wide fundraiser, planning to utilize the money to purchase snacks for the enrichment program. The chosen fundraiser was an “ice bucket challenge,” where staff and students donated money to the staff member they most wanted to see doused with ice cold water. In the end, the “winner” was Center Director Cathy Williams, 2nd place was CPP Specialist Michael Little, and 3rd place Residential Advisor Jennifer Sparks.
The funds raised were enough to buy 10 boxes each of pop tarts, popcorn, and crackers. SGA President Hannah McBeth stated “we were proud to be able to assist the kids in the summer enrichment program, and we thank everyone who donated to the cause.”
As a center, we appreciate the work that the TAP program does for the youth in Smyth County, and look forward to working for closely with them in the future.