FAQ’s
What activities are included in the program?
Each day, the program begins with a light meal and an icebreaker game or check-in circle. After that, each club has its own schedule of activities based on student interest and target skills we are working on. These skills could include leadership, teamwork, physical activity, youth voice and others. Activities often include arts and crafts like sewing, knitting, crocheting, painting, and other creative projects. Cooking activities are also offered, where students can learn basic kitchen skills. Students can also participate in sport activities or games such as board games, Dungeons & Dragons, e-sports, and other group games. Students can request to have activities added to the schedule.
How are students supervised at the program?
Each club has at least two staff members on duty every day. These staff members supervise all activities and program areas during club hours. Students sign in and out so the staff knows who’s there. Staff and volunteers are not allowed to be alone with a student.
Does my student need to attend every day?
Attendance at Youth 360 is flexible and based on what works for the student and their family. Students can come every day, once a week, or even just once a month. However, we do ask that all students need register so we have emergency contact information and signed permission slips.
What are the hours of operation?
During the school year, Houston and Wasilla Clubs are open Monday to Friday from 2:15 to 6:00 PM. The summer program runs Monday to Thursday from 12:00 to 5:00 PM.
How much does it cost?
The Youth 360 program is free for students. The program is funded through grants and donations. Donations and volunteers are always welcome.
Is transportation provided?
We contract with Valley Transit to provide rides for students at the end of each program day. Most students are dropped off at central community locations for pick up by families. Speak with a club manager for details on our bus routes. During the summer, we run pick-up and drop-off routes for each location.
Limited transportation is available to the Wasilla club (501 E Bogard Rd) from local schools at the end of the school day. Bus #82 from Wasilla Middle School and Bus #54 from Wasilla High School bring students to the Wasilla club. Students from Burchell, Career Tech and other schools can ride a transfer bus to WHS, then walk or ride to our club.
How does the program communicate with parents?
We encourage face-to-face communication and welcome parents to stop by the club or call us with any questions or concerns. We also send out a monthly newsletter via email, along with schedule updates through email and text. Parents can also use DreamClass, our student information system https://youth360.dreamclass.io/, to check attendance, update contact info, and communicate with the Youth 360 staff.
What qualifications do the staff members have?
All staff members have experience working with youth and have passed fingerprint-based background checks. They receive ongoing training, including CPR/First Aid, Youth Mental Health First Aid, and the Youth Thrive Framework. They also complete training on trauma-informed care and protecting children from abuse. Youth 360 partners with the Alaska Afterschool Network for staff training and quality standards.
How does the program support academic success?
Youth 360 values academic success and supports families with any academic needs. While Youth 360 is not a tutoring program, students are always welcome to do homework at the club. The Wasilla club has a quiet study space for homework before students join the activities. Please speak to our staff about your child’s academics if needed.