STRENGTHENING FAMILIES PROJECT
Family Literacy
OASES sponsors Family Literacy Days for its youth and their families every year. These events celebrate literacy in a variety of ways – story telling, guest authors, engaging literacy activities and games – and provide opportunities for many families to be exposed to literacy outside of the school-day context. Family Literacy Days are particularly important because 78% of youth in the OASES LEAP Elementary After-School Program are English Language Learners.
On April 27, 2006, OASES hosted "Go Wild With Reading Family Literacy Day" at Barnes & Nobles Booksellers, which gathered over 200 low-income, immigrant family members. “This event was the first time OASES youth met a young author who had his first book published at the age of 10. After meeting Brian B. Wong, we noticed youth at OASES gained more confidence in their ability to read and write,” said Nhi Chau, Executive Director of OASES.
Coordination of Social Services
In collaboration with Lincoln Elementary School, OASES helps youth and their families gain access to health and social services, mental health, housing and job training resources.
Culturally Competent Parenting Workshops
OASES hosts workshops promoting culturally competent parenting skills on topics such as: creating a supportive environment at home, developing and strengthening parental communication skills, understanding and appreciating diversity, and understanding the American school system.