Youth Initiatives @ GMCC
We believe every young person has “genius.”
Our student-centered programming is designed by a team of experienced educators, community partners, and GMCC staff. The core beliefs driving the program design process are: every young person has genius; all youth deserve access to high-quality educational methods and the latest technologies; and the well-being of the whole child (mental, physical, spiritual, intellectual) is critical to fostering youth development. We focus on STEM programming, homework help, digital access, and meeting the immediate needs of the youth in our neighborhood.
Fall 2023 Programming
Saturday Workshop Series
When: Saturdays, 3:30 – 6:00 PM
October 28 – December 16, 2023
*no programming Nov. 25
Where: GMCC, 1100 E Lake Street, Minneapolis, MN 55407
Activities Include:
– Adult Digital Skills and Media Literacy Workshops: Learn basic computer and digital navigation skills, information literacy, career search and application skills, how to use email, and more. For community members and parents of youth participting in Saturday youth programs.
– Genius Labs (for youth grades 1-5): Build STEM skills through hands-on educational activities!
– Tech Teens (for youth grades 6-12): Train to become a paid Digital Navigator and explore careers with STEM professionals.
Weeknight Homework Help and Tutoring
When: Tuesdays and Thursdays 4:00 – 6:00 PM
October 24 – December 14
*no programming Nov. 21 and 23
Where: GMCC, 1100 E Lake Street, Minneapolis, MN 55407
Activities Include:
– Homework Help and Tutoring (math, reading, language arts, science, etc.). For students grades 1-12.
– Computer Lab: Access computers and internet through our computer lab, located in our Digital Cafe. Get support from our team and Digital Navigators, learn basic computer skills, get help creating a resume, send emails, and more.
Questions? Contact us:
Meghann Gordon, Director of Youth Initatives: mgordon@gmcc.org or 612-588-4655
Deeq Abdi, Youth Program Manager: dabdi@gmcc.org or 612-1579
Previous Programming
Genius Labs 2023 Summer Camp
In August 2023, we provided a no-cost, all day (9-5) summer camp to 59 students entering 1st-8th grade. Experiences included STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) activities, outdoor exploration, art, reading, field trips, and more!
Students explored weekly topics in agriculture and farming, space, electricity, Minnesota wildelife and nature, and so much inbetween.
We just discovered a whole new world!
Spring 2023 Family Workshop Series
Middle and High school youth will participated in our Tech Teens program, which included programming on coding, information technology, and digital learning opportunities to help them succeed in school. Provided, in partnership with New Visions Foundation.
Informed by our Genius Labs programming, elementary-aged youth participated in engaging and educational STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) activities to excite them about learning and build their skills in a variety of subjects. Activities are designed by GMCC’s Youth Program staff as well las partners such as Snapology (Lego robotics), the Bakken Museum (the science of electricity), Abrakadoodle (art), the Book Buggie (free books for all ages, and more!
Tech Teens
Tech Teens is a Saturday out-of-school experience that focuses on the development of digital technology skills through hands-on, challenge-based activities that foster creativity, independence, critical thinking, and self-awareness. The goal of Tech Teens is to spark an interest in technology, expose students to the many areas of the tech field, and position them for careers in technology or those that require use of technology.
Stay tuned for our next session of Tech Teens!
