Published on May 21st, 2000
The School Makes A Difference (SMAD) program was created in 1990 by Athletes and Entertainers For Kids (AEFK). The original emphasis of the program was on career counselling and showing teenagers the important role their education played in acquiring a good job.
Shortly before The PEACE Fund obtained the program, it had evolved into a set of workshops designed to show children how much fun school can be and how it impacts their lives, to teach children studying techniques, and to provide them with tips to help them achieve more in school.
Historically, the SMAD program targeted children between the ages of 8-14, but children ranging in age from 5-18 also benefited. Due to the portability and adaptability of the program, it was taken to schools, youth centers and educational facilities around the country.
From its early days one of The PEACE Fund's goals was to involve celebrities in our programs, allowing them to inspire and motivate children. Our first project, The School Makes A Difference program, allowed them a hands-on opportunity to help underprivileged children and children in need. Not only did children benefit from participating in the classes, but celebrities were able to see firsthand how their presence made a difference.
Along with certified teachers and motivational speakers, the celebrities conducted individual workshops at schools, Department of Children and Family Service centers and other appropriate locations. Workshop topics covered goal setting, study skills, hands-on art, peer pressure, safety for kids, interactive storytelling, fitness and health, interactive history, and 9-1-1 for kids.
At the end of this one-day program, each child received a certificate of completion and a gift bag filled with school supplies and other goodies through in-kind donations from private and corporate sponsors. The flexibility of topics within School Makes A Difference allowed The PEACE Fund to adapt the program to each school's particular need, addressing the specific issues plaguing children in their area.
PEACE Fund Volunteers - people who wanted to donate some of their time or expertise to help the children of inner city schools - have staffed all the School Makes A Difference programs. Without them it would have been difficult to staff these events and make them run so smoothly.
We were very fortunate to have been able to participate in the program twice in that we were able to make a difference in the lives of over 250 children. Your facilitators are people who are able to convey a positive message to the students. Most importantly we commend Adrian, his staff, and volunteers for their vision and hope that other educators take advantage of all that The PEACE Fund has to offer."
Regina Boutte (James A. Foshay Learning Centre, South Central Los Angeles, CA.)
The event was successful in demonstrating your commitment to helping children gain an academic boost. Since children often say it best, I'll share the contents of one of the notes received from the children. 'Thank you for the fun time. This was the happiest day of my life. I never had this much. I hope you accept my thank you. I can't say enough, but thank you. From Twana.'"
Gail McFarlane-Sosa (Edelman Children’s Court, Monterey Park, CA)
