The Robert F. Kennedy Children’s Action Corps operates five residential programs and two special education schools in Massachusetts, with major funding coming from state and local contributions. Grants, such as the one from the Maximus Foundation, help the organization offer recreational and learning opportunities.

Students in the RFK Academy, Don Watson Academy, and the Detention Diversion Advocacy Program were able to:

• visit museums, farms, movie theaters, or amusement parks,
• attend musical performances, and,
• take part in nature activities.

The Action Corps offers these activities as part of the ARC (Attachment, Regulation, and Competency) model that combines education, therapy, recreation, and social services. The model helps build both educational and social confidence.

A staff member reflects that “working with these young people requires the ability to view them through the lens of their strengths and abilities, to understand that they are not defined by their trauma or disabilities, and to provide a safe, caring, and supportive environment.”

Learn more about the Robert F. Kennedy Children’s Action Corps at rfkchildren.org.