Our Programs:
AREF supports educational projects in areas such as Music, Performing Arts, Arts and Culture, Science, Math, Technology, Recreation & Sports and Early Childhood Education. The Foundation supports opportunities for student success such as field trips, classroom projects, enrichment activities, and other creative approaches that support our vision of success for the children and families of Alum Rock.
Current Programs
- Mini Grants - AREF supports opportunities for student success by providing mini-grants for field trips, classroom projects, enrichment activities and other creative approaches that support our vision. Mini Grants are awarded in amounts up to $500.
- The Joseph George Science Workshop - After-school hands-on science activities are offered daily at the Joseph George Recreation Center to students age 8 and older. Middle school students participate in the MESA (Math, Engineering and Science Achievement) K-12 Program of San Jose State University. Funded by the Mountain Winery Kid's Foundation and supported by the City of San Jose, Parks, Recreation and Neighborhoods Services (PRNS) and the Agilent After-School Program.
- Science Summer Camps and Sports Activities - Two-week sessions of all-day summer science camps are offered to students ages 10-12 on a sliding fee basis. Summer co-ed softball clinics and after-school team sports programs have been held in partnership with the Physical Education Department of Joseph George Middle School. Funded by the Mountain Winery Kid's Foundation and supported by the City of San Jose PRNS.
- ESL (CBET) Family Literacy Program - Located at Goss Elementary School, this program provides ESL classes to parents and childcare for their preschool children during the school year and is funded by CDE & Federal WIA grants.
Community Support
- AREF serves as Fiscal Agent for The Alum Rock Youth Center Advisory Committee, which is committed to working with AREF to address the needs of families within the Alum Rock School District. AREF supports the committee’s efforts to raise funds to support the programs and activities offered at the Alum Rock Youth Center.
Community Collaborations
- AREF is a member of the Eastside Children’s Health Initiative Collaborative, which works to assist families in acquiring low-cost/no cost Health Insurance for their children.