With our partners, we build strong foundations through programs that empower children and families to lead successful lives.
JOIN OUR CAPITAL CAMPAIGN • INVEST IN THE FUTURE
JOIN OUR CAPITAL CAMPAIGN • INVEST IN THE FUTURE
Make a Difference!
As a volunteer, you will help students and families thrive. It is the most rewarding type of work when you benefit others by sharing your time, knowledge, and talents with those who need it most. Hours are flexible, but our schedule is Monday through Friday, 2:30-5:30 pm.
Help students with homework and reading skills
Coach life skills to teens and adults
Provide office support, participate in special events, and more
Questions? Contact Vanita Moses-Cook at 941-483-3338 Ext. 104 or email: vmoses@laurelcivic.net or Alicia Williams, Director of Youth Programs, 941-483-3338, Ext 101 or email at awilliams@laurelcivic.net.
Don’t have time? Consider making a gift!
Sign Up Today for Afterschool Academic Program!
Our after-school academic program serves students in grades K-12 in a safe, structured environment that focuses on academic support, mentorship, and enrichment. Guided by certified teachers, staff, and dedicated volunteers, we help students improve grades, build confidence, and develop lifelong learning habits. While our primary focus is on elementary and middle school students, we also welcome high school students, particularly those who have completed our program and wish to continue receiving academic support.
Afterschool Academic Program
Our K–12 Afterschool Academic Program provides a safe, structured environment for academic and emotional support Monday through Friday, 2:30–5:30 p.m.
We serve students from all Sarasota County schools, providing primary participation and transportation from Laurel Nokomis Elementary and Middle School, Venice Elementary School, and Venice Middle School. While transportation is provided from these campuses, the program is open to all students from any Sarasota County school. All are welcome!
We work in partnership with Sarasota County Schools, reinforcing classroom instruction through academic assistance, support with homework and school projects, and a structured daily reading curriculum. Every student is provided with a Chromebook to access their MySCS account and complete online assignments. Three 86” Promethean Smart Boards extend classroom instruction into our program space, ensuring continuity across grade levels.
Currently, certified teachers from Laurel Nokomis Elementary and Middle School, Venice Middle School, and Venice Elementary School provide part-time academic instruction alongside trained staff and volunteers. The participation of these certified educators is made possible through the generosity of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County and the Jerome and Mildred Paddock Foundation. We also provide one-on-one assistance to students with Specialized Varying Exceptionality (SVES) and Individualized Education Program (IEP) needs.
Measurable Results
During the 2024–2025 school year, with a daily average attendance of 121 students:
94% of general education students earned or maintained A–B honor roll status.
84% of IEP students performed above average academically.
95% of students finished the year reading above average, up from 89% at the beginning of the year, demonstrating measurable literacy growth.
For the current school year, our goal is for at least 90% of students to finish above average academically.
Make an Impact
Flanzer Philanthropic Trust Matching Program
Contributions can be made via PayPal, credit cards or check. Donation amounts are limited to $500 per month per agency, per household, with a maximum of $3,000 per year per agency. Be sure to Select Laurel Civic Association!
Youth Empowerment
We believe that children can overcome challenges at home, in school, and in life if we show them the way.
The John Jefferson Youth Empowerment Programs
Academic Empowerment
We believe that children need to succeed academically to become independent and self-sufficient adults.
Teen Empowerment
We believe that providing teens with life skills allows them to set themselves on a course for future success.
Our Alumni
We are very proud of the accomplishments of our students who partake in our Youth Empowerment Programs. Learn from them the difference that you can make. Visit our Alumni Page to learn more.
Growing Strong STEMs
Adult Programs
Hand Up!
We believe that understanding fiscal management, interviewing and employment placement skills leads to financial independence and hope for the future.
Life Skills
We believe that helping people learn to effectively function better as a family, community member, and in the workforce reduces stress and provides pathways to success.
Access to Independence
We believe that people who have access to programs that help alleviate issues of hunger, housing, and medical care can focus on building a more stable, self-sufficient future.
Community Empowerment
We believe that adults living on the margins of society can achieve self-sufficiency when armed with the skills and training to overcome life challenges. This allows them to be productive in their community, and gives them hope for a brighter future for themselves and their families.
Food and Emergency Financial Assistance
One of the biggest challenges facing many families is hunger. Our Client Choice Food Distributions in partnership with All Faiths Food Bank are held on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month from 10 am-12 pm and 4-6 pm. Anyone in need of food is welcome. We also have an Emergency Financial Assistance program available for families in crisis.