Student Success Story: Benjamin's Brain Is Growing

Some students take a little convincing to come to an after-school program.

Benjamin Martin is one of them.

"I sometimes act like I don't like it," he admitted with a big smile and a laugh. "But I always enjoy myself."

Once he's at Freedom City, there's no question he'd rather be here than anywhere else. Whether it's Fun Fridays, spending time with friends, or learning something new in math, Benjamin has found a place where he can have fun while continuing to grow.

Math is his favorite subject, and he's especially proud of what he's learned since joining Freedom City's After-School and Summer Programs.

"They have helped me learn multiplication and long division," he said with an excited grin.

That excitement for learning doesn't stop with math. This year, Benjamin reached an important reading milestone by meeting his reading benchmark.

"I passed my benchmark for reading and went to the pizza party!" he shouted proudly.

For Benjamin, Freedom City isn't just another place to spend the afternoon. It's a place where he feels encouraged, challenged, and supported.

"At Freedom City I feel really good because I am learning new things that I hadn't learned in my regular classes," he shared. "I am able to work on my homework so that frees up my time for Roblox, my main passion."

Like many students, Benjamin has adults at Freedom City who make him feel seen and cared for.

When asked who has made the biggest difference, his answer came without hesitation.

"Mrs. Judy!" he said. "She is always nice to us and she knows when you are having a rough day and gives the best hugs. I love Mrs. Judy. She is the best! Ms. Gaby and Mr. Kyle look out for me too."

If Freedom City weren't part of his afternoons, Benjamin knows exactly what he'd be doing.

"I would be at home bored playing on my tablet until my screen time runs out. So, I am thankful for Freedom City and being able to hang out with my friends and learn."

When asked what he would tell another student who is thinking about coming to Freedom City, Benjamin couldn't help but smile.

"Freedom City is a really fun place. You will make new friends, and Fun Fridays are the BEST! We went to the splash pad once and had popsicles."

Then he laughed before adding one final thought that perfectly captures what Freedom City is all about:

"Plus your brain will grow!"

We couldn't have said it better ourselves.