OPERATION EXPLOSION (OP-X)

For children, between the ags of 5-14, Operation Explosion (Op-X) exists to spearhead the meeting needs of families by offering a positive values-based children's program with a vision to mentor, offer alternatives to the traditional street bondages many youth face,and meet the physical, social, and spiritual needs of families. Drawing on encouragement and positive rolemodeling, we believe that each child and family has a defined destiny, purpose and a hope who will not succumb to a generation's status quo of drugs, alcohol abuse, gangs, and violence.

As the weather is still warm, the program runs outdoors with two 8 week series starting at the beginning of the school year and at the end of the school year. Each child receives a nutritious snack, participate in games and healthy fitness activities, and has an opportunity to win small door prizes. Through dance, skits and simple messages, themes of nutrition, career planning, academic success, character-building, and making positive choices in life are emphasized. Games, music, and animated volunteers also impart constructive affirmation and simple life messages that kids can relate to.

It is through this program we are often able to determine how to best meet the needs of children and low to moderate income families. Many have been recipients of Bless-A-Family, Family Emergency Response, Neighborhood Christmas Parties, Learning Camp, Youth Leadership Mentoring (MSN), or the Mom's Support Network (MSN).