ENERGY

ENERGY is a tutoring program for 2nd to 6th grade students at Westminster Presbyterian Church. Most of the students are from Buffalo’s Ferguson Avenue/Grant Street neighborhoods, one of the least served areas in the city.

How It Works:

  • ENERGY meets every Tuesday and Wednesday, from 4:30 – 6:30 P.M.
  • Transportation is provided for the students to and from the church.
  • The program follows the Buffalo Public School schedule and all sessions meet when school is in session.
  • Buffalo Public Schools Calendar

What We Offer

  • Educational, recreational, and artistic activities.
  • Individualized homework help and academic tutoring
  • Family-style meal with tutors and other volunteers.
  • Field trips, special events, and school supplies to the underserved students who live in Buffalo's West Side (the neighborhood feature on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition).
       

ENERGY has been in operation for twelve years and is in keeping with Westminster Presbyterian Church’s 150 years of activism in the Western New York area. In 2007, ENERGY became part of the newly formed non-profit organization Westminster Economic Development Initiative (WEDI). This 501(C)3 non-profit organization is focused on improving the lives of residents on the West Side through educational opportunities, microfunding and support of Habitat for Humanity.

Who We Are
All of the volunteers who participate in ENERGY graciously donate their time to work with the students as tutors and mentors, to prepare the meals, and encourage the students in academics and personal growth. These volunteers present cultural, recreational and science activities, and also provide technology assistance. Students spend time with all the volunteers and develop strong relationships during the four years that the students are eligible to participate in the program.

We Need You!
ENERGY invites community members who share its mission to volunteer on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Positions are available for tutors, mentors, cooks, substitute tutors, and special activity leaders. These are all valuable and much appreciated contributions to the program. Please contact the church office at 716 -884-9437 for more information on these opportunities.