Obesity and unhealthy nutritional choices has plagued our nation with many issues concerning physical development and wellness. Parents are not always aware of the negative impact unhealthy dietary choices have on the human mind and body. Along with core curriculum activities, AKW concentrates on educating parents whose children are enrolled in our program on healthy alternatives through balanced meals, physical activity and recreation.

Low-income families with children enrolled in AKW programs have access to pantry items free of charge. During the first visit participants will be required to sign a Visitor's Log. Thereafter, in order to minimize food waste, individuals will need to attend a half hour nutrition education class to receive additional pantry items. Those attending for 6-8 consecutive weeks will receive a certificate of completion from the teacher of his/her child’s classroom. Individuals not enrolled in AKW programs have access to pantry items free of charge (same procedures apply).

AKW subsidiary program "Love has Hands" has provided thousands of hot meals to individuals, families and homeless in the Chicago land area for years. Love has hands volunteers have committed to service and onsite meals, such as lower wacker drive homeless community and other areas of Chicago.

AKW child care programs are designed for low-income families with children 6 weeks to 6 years of age. Before and after school programs are designed for children 6 to 12 years of age. Our Creative Curriculum model allows children to explore and learn while reaching their developmental milestones. All activities include choice, language development, games, crafts, songs, stories and large muscle activities. Classrooms are literacy rich to encourage language development. Classroom set up is intended to promote independence. Children are always encouraged to respect the rights of others and that everyone’s dream is achievable. Our hours of operation are from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m.

Classrooms are designed to allow children the opportunity to make choices about where they will play and what materials will aid them. Each classroom has a basic work activity area that includes:

• Manipulative

• Block Area

• Art Area

• Dramatic Play Area

• Quiet Area

In additional to the basic activity areas, classrooms include: • Music Area • Writing Area • Woodworking Area • Sand and Water Area • Math/Science Area

Before/After School

The AKW Before/After School Program will address the unique matters of temporary care. Activities will be designed to build group organization and enjoyment in a short-term care setting. Children will be offered choices within a range appropriate for children enrolled and in attendance on a specific day. These activities could include cooking, arts and crafts, computer time, drama, music, tutoring and outdoor experiences. AKW offers the possibility for additional programming space and activities.

AKW developed a job readiness program to eliminate barriers and challenges parents are faced with making the transition into the workforce. Our program helps low-income families of enrolled children to obtain jobs that lead to economic self-sufficiency. Services are available to eligible youth and adults who desire to enter or return to the workforce. Individuals will attend workshops to enhance their job search, get support on resume and cover letter writing, networking, learn the "do’s and don'ts" of interviewing, and are given advice on what to wear for job interviews. Individuals will participate in dress rehearsal exercises with corporate executives and community business owners. AKW gives participants access to a resource room that provides access to a computer, copier, fax, phone and Internet access to current city and statewide job listing.

AKW will provide career attire to parents of enrolled children who are seeking employment. Individuals will receive one suit (or other appropriate items) for their job interview. Additional apparel will be provided once he/she becomes employed.

Everyone has a talent be it hidden or known. AKW will develop that talent by providing comprehensive programs center around cultural awareness and performing arts. Music, art, dance and theatre activities will be offered to children enrolled in AKW programs.