United Way recently awarded one-time grants to organizations providing programs and services for youth in East St. Louis, Illinois. The primary focus was on agencies that offer enrichment, cultural, educational, employment and recreational opportunities for area youth.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated – Awarded $25,440
Launching New Dimensions of service to address community needs in several target areas; food and school supplies will be distributed to school children; two area playgrounds will be restored; and community awareness about littering, waste management and recycling will occur.

Community Lifeline – Awarded $25,440
STEM-ology Summer and After School/Mentoring Program provides a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) based curriculum for area youth involved in the organization’s after-school programs.

Jackie Joyner Kersee Foundation – Awarded $25,440
The Bell Curriculum to close the achievement gap, in partnership with SIU-Edwardsville Higher Education Center in East St. Louis and the Christian Activity Center, will serve 100 students, grades 2-5, during the agency’s summer camp.

Nu Chi Foundation – Awarded $25,440
Project Manhood provides group mentoring designed to assist at-risk male students through monthly mentor sessions, educational workshops, activities and college field trips.

The Sinai Family Life Center – Awarded $25,440
Summer Youth Enrichment Camp will provide nutrition and physical fitness routines, reading, computer training, youth financial literacy, and field trips for area youth.