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Did you know Mercer County has the largest caseload of abused and neglected children in the state? Sadly, we also rank fourth in juvenile delinquency. Over half of middle schoolers have tried smoking, and one-third have used marijuana. About 1/13 of adults in our community have less than a ninth grade education.

Currently, one in five adults in Mercer County lack a high school diploma. Average income is $14,000 less than the national average, and one in every five individuals lives below the poverty line (double the national average). Unless something is done, the children raised in this climate do not have a fair chance at success when they grow up.

What can be done? We don't claim to have a perfect fix for all the challenges our community faces, but we do want to be part of the solution. We exist to help children and teens grow physically, intellectually, emotionally and spiritually. The programs you can read about below are each designed to target these domains. Even more importantly, they give kids the chance to interact with role models and mentors who teach healthy living, peaceful conflict resolution, good decision making, goal-oriented behavior, and more.

We have over 150 children enrolled in the after-school program. Children are tutored in different school subjects, frequently visit the Wade Center computer labs, enjoy physical activity in the gymnasium, and are fed a nutritious dinner each evening. The after-school program is one of the most successful outreaches Wade offers to area youth, but it is also one of the most expensive to fund. If you would like to know more about supporting the Wade Center's After-School Program visit our DONATE page.


CURRENT PROGRAMS AT WADE:

 



Our after-school program, "411," lasts until 6:30 p.m. every Monday through Thursday. Students get a hot meal and learn about sports, dance, music, art, computers and more! We offer homework help and tutoring. To enroll a child, registration is required. For more information, see our AFTER-SCHOOL INFO CENTER.

  

 



During the summer, we offer weekly camps. The camps last from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Mon.-Thurs. When not in the classroom, students play in the gym, on the athletic fields, or attend art classes, drama, and field trips. Breakfast and lunch provided daily. Learn more at the SUMMER CAMP INFO CENTER.

 

 



The school system makes sure all children have good breakfasts and lunches throughout the week. Wade provides a wonderful dinner during after-school. But what about the weekends? Our new backpack program sends students home on Thursdays with a backpack full of healthy food for the weekend!

  

 



Wade Student Ministries offers a worship service for high school students called "Wildfire". Small groups for teenagers called Ignite Groups meet throughout the week as well. For more information call the Wade Center.

  

 



A key element in spiritual growth is reaching out to others to show the love of God. The Wade Center provides a perfect place for out-of-town groups to do this, offering opportunities both in community improvement and relational ministry. For the details, visit our MISSIONS WEBSITE.

  

 



Wade offers a variety of sports camps for students who want to take their skills to the next level. Staffed by college athletes, these camps provide individual and group training in specific skills. For more information on upcoming camps, call 304.323.3777 or email us at the address below.