Each Wednesday after the instructional day ends the McNeil High School cafeteria is transformed into an “After Hours” retreat for students to gather, unwind and discover new friendships.
After Hours became possible when a McNeil community member serving as a mentor to students connected campus administration with Fort Worth based non-profit, The Effie Center. The Effie Center runs an After Hours program in the Dallas area. To staff the program, volunteer teen mentors from locally based Catalyst Collective were brought in to coordinate the weekly operation.
“The After Hours program provides an opportunity for students to enjoy socializing in a safe environment with their friends,” McNeil Vice Principal Joe Grubb said. “We are so grateful to the Catalyst Teen Center and the Effie Center for their contribution. The smiles on faces of our students tell the whole story.”
Community businesses and services wishing to teach or demonstrate an activity to students during After Hours can contact the Catalyst Collective.View
