The Preschool and Toddler areas (3,060 sq. ft.) at the Atlantic Avenue site are located in the sanctuary of this old church building. Because of the open architecture and high ceilings (35 feet), noise and visual distractions are a problem. They are also difficult to heat and cool. Five classrooms are located in this common area. The mezzanine will also create a steel ceiling above the children for added protection in case of an earthquake.

Concern for crossover sound causes teachers to restrict some activities so they do not disturb adjoining classes. The actual shared noise creates a sensory overload and has a negative impact on comfort, socialization and learning. In a care-giving and educational setting, this is a significant problem that detracts from what should be a calm, quiet environment conducive to learning. The current layout makes it difficult for the children to concentrate, listen to teachers & peers, and freely utilize their verbal skills.

Installing a mezzanine will create a lower ceiling that reduces noise and improves heat control for the children’s classrooms. It also will create additional space for administrative needs in the floor above the classrooms. Estimated cost $80,000 for structure.

- - - - - “B” Priorities - - - - -

ALL-STAFF TRAINING DAY:
Twice each year we close the centers for a day to provide specialized training for our staff. This involves off-site meeting facilities, and special guest presenters who are brought in to provide professional and current training to enhance the staff’s teaching skills and abilities. This is also viewed as an employee benefit that assists their professional development. As with all our programs and projects, the prevailing concept is to enhance the quality of care given to the children. This is a highly beneficial experience for our staff. They enhance their teaching skills and return to the children energized and ready to apply new ideas. Estimated cost $15,000 - $20,000.
 

- - - - - “C” Priorities - - - - -

ATLANTIC SITE - KITCHEN - WALK-IN COLD ROOM:

The kitchen’s refrigeration/freezer needs are being met with a collection of six appliances. The practical and energy-efficient solution is to convert this 10’ by 15’ room into a Cold Room (walk-in storage). This will significantly increase storage capacity, maximize efficiency and reduce the expenses of maintaining safe and constant temperature food storage. Estimated cost: $25,000 - $40,000.

REINSTATE PLAY INTERVENTION:

The National Charity League has previously made financial contributions to our Play Intervention Program, which has been a key element of our services for many years. It provides on-site intervention to help children learn and practice social skills in a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental environment. Play Intervention is a vital opportunity for children to “play out” their problems, fears, loneliness, and feelings of failure or inadequacy and learn to control their own behaviors, strengthen their coping and social skills, and continue learning in our program.

The Play Intervention program is dependent on funding from outside sources. $15,600 will allow us to resume this program on a part-time basis for one year. [It has been on hold pending funding.]

BE AN ANNUAL DINNER/AUCTION SPONSOR:

We conduct our annual fundraising dinner and auction in December. The funds raised enable us to care for a number of our project needs. The sponsors for this event receive recognition and visibility for their business and help us reach our financial goals. Sponsorships are available from $1,500 to $15,000.

   We always have a variety of items to purchase to maintain our work with the children. Some are moderate in cost, but add up to sums that are beyond our budget. YOUR FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION to our General Operating Expense gives us flexibility to complete projects and meet the needs of our children.
   Help us augment our State funding to ensure the continuation of our programs, facilities, and necessary expansion. The work of Young Horizons is a major factor in improving the quality of life for hundreds of families in Long Beach, and breaking the chain of poverty.

Please call (562) 437-8991 if you (or your company) would like to adopt one of these projects.