The Kids U philanthropic program was one of the three initial projects implemented by Assistance League® of the Bay Area, which was a guild of Assistance League® of Houston, in 1989. Initially, chapter members and later, Assisteens volunteered with the program offered by the University of Houston-Clear Lake every summer. The program aimed to strengthen children’s skills in science, math, reading, literacy, and technology. Volunteers worked as classroom aides alongside teachers who were instructing the specific topics. Courses were offered at age-appropriate levels for Pre-K through fifth-grade students. Moreover, funds were allocated to provide scholarships to those who may not have been able to attend.
Members of Assistance League collaborated with the program leadership of the University to identify the most pressing needs and determine how their organization could provide the greatest assistance. As the program progressed, the chapter shifted its focus to the Discovery through Play initiative. The initiative provided scholarships to children aged three and four for participation. This program offered a safe and inclusive environment for children to engage in real-life learning experiences through play. Children temporarily residing at the Bay Area Turning Point shelter were the beneficiaries of this program.
This philanthropic program was retired on May 31, 2017.