- Strengthening Families
- Laying Foundation
- Inspiring Hope
About Us
Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Our Education Division provides educational and developmental services that place kids on a pathway towards success. We serve ages 6 weeks to 12 years. Through high quality education and trauma informed service delivery, we endeavor to create life-long learners and equip children to succeed in the 21st Century. We leverage our community partnerships in order to effectively address the needs of our students and parents. Our programs are accredited by the National Accreditation Commission for Early Care and Education Programs (NAC). Our programs have achieved the Gold Circle of Quality as recognized by the State of Illinois.
MISSION AND BELIEFS
Our mission is to provide children with educational and developmental support that maximizes learning potential and lays a foundation for life-long learning. We believe that every child is entitled to quality education. We also believe in...:
Utilizing current teaching strategies to promote cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and language development.
Cultivating and establishing a nurturing environment that fosters active learning and creativity.
Creating fun and exciting learning experiences.
Involving parents in the education of their children.
Utilizing skilled educators that teach with passion.
Programs
Staff
We're a well-trained team dedicated to take care of your child's educational needs from sign-up to send-off. Every member of our staff is committed to the discovery and growth process of the children we serve. This is what we do best, and we enjoy doing it.
Yetha Maloney
Division Director
Margo Smith
Site Director
Site Director
Linda Bender
Site Director
Site Director
Alexander Graves
Program Manager
Program Manager
Georgina Mendez
Assistant Director
Assistant Director
Alejandra Avalos
Parent Support Services Director
Parent Support Services Director
Our Commitment to Your Child's Future
At Garden of Prayer Youth Center, our purpose is to provide children with educational and developmental support that lay a foundation for lifelong learning.
We’re dedicated to providing your child with the educational and developmental support that forms the bedrock of lifelong learning. Our programs are designed to help each child reach their full learning potential, setting them on a path to success from the very start.
Infant and Toddler Program
In our Infant and Toddler Program, your little one will experience daily opportunities to engage in activities that nurture key developmental milestones. Through positive, responsive, and affectionate interactions, our caregivers help infants and toddlers build trust and confidence, knowing their needs will always be met. We create an environment rich with appropriate challenges and opportunities for exploration, where your child’s natural curiosity leads to meaningful learning experiences.
Preschool Program
Our Preschool Program is rooted in the belief that the early years are crucial for cultivating a lifelong love of learning. We offer a dynamic environment where your child can grow socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually. Guided by the principles of best practice, our experienced educators provide a variety of choices, challenges, and opportunities that nurture your child's unique interests and strengths. We celebrate individual differences, understanding that every child develops at their own pace and in their own way.
We invite you to explore how our tailored programs can provide your child with the strong foundation they need for a bright future. Reach out to us today to learn more and discover how we can support your family’s educational journey.
Our Commitment to Developing
Well-Rounded Young Individuals
At Garden of Prayer Youth Center, our mission is to nurture boys and girls into compassionate, creative, and thoughtful young adults. We focus on the holistic development of each child—spiritually, intellectually, socially, and physically—ensuring they grow into well-rounded individuals.
Students Excel with Family Enrichment Program (S.E.F.E.)
Our S.E.F.E. program is designed to support your child’s academic and personal growth by offering individualized and group tutoring and mentoring services. We aim to reduce school suspensions while addressing the mental health and academic needs of students. Operating before and after school hours, our program provides a safe and enriching environment for your child. Before care starts at 6:00 a.m., and after school care runs from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. During this time, your child will receive a nutritious snack, homework assistance, life skills training, and participate in recreational activities. Our experienced and trained staff are dedicated to ensuring your child’s safety and well-being.
S.A.F.E. Summer Day Camp
Our S.A.F.E. Summer Day Camp offers an exciting eight-week program that balances academics and athletics to promote healthy minds and bodies. Campers enjoy a mix of academic enrichment, physical education, arts and crafts, drama classes, technology sessions, and special projects that foster both individual and group development. With fun-filled field trips and healthy meals included, your child will have an unforgettable summer experience that’s both educational and enjoyable.
We invite you to learn more about how our programs can support your child’s journey to becoming a confident, well-rounded individual. Contact us today to find out how we can partner with your family for a brighter future.
Center Locations
Site One
381 S Fourth Ave.
Kankakee, Il 60901
101 S Division Aroma Park, Il 60910
SAFE HAVEN
101 S. Division St
Aroma Park, Il
LORENZO R. SMITH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
4120 S Wheeler Rd
Hopkins Park, Il
Garden Of Prayer Youth Center | © All Rights Reserved | (815) 933-2493