Community of Organized Learners
COOL News:
The Community of Organized Learners (COOL) is NATHA's afterschool enrichment program that utilizes evidence-based curriculum to engage youth in cooking courses, gardening classes, and health education. During the month of January, the program theme was trees and their meaning for our community in terms of the ecosystem and their health benefits. The youth participated in community walks to identify the types of trees in the Lincoln Village, which is part of a larger effort to map Pasadena’s trees. NATHA is taking part in the Fallen Fruit initiative, which aims to map all edible urban landscapes in Los Angeles County for the benefit of all. Particular focus is being placed on lemon trees in order to support the Lemonade Brigade, which is our teen-run homemade lemonade business.
If you, or someone you know, have youth in grades K-12, please come by our center to
pick up an application, or give us a call so that one may be mailed to you. We are open to all youth in the community. You can also click here to download a copy of the application.
COOL Program Information:
Elementary students receive:
- Homework assistance
- Tutoring
- Computer Workshops
- Mentoring
- Periodic Field Trips
COOL youth also participate in project-based learning activities. Our art and project partner, The Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Garden, provides horticulturalists, materials and training to the Junior Master Gardeners at NATHA. Five Acres, a child abuse and neglect prevention, treatment and education center helps special needs students with socialization and behavioral issues, working with both the children and their parents.
The COOL program also provides in-service training for NATHA staff on working in and with groups. California State University, Los Angeles, Pacific Oaks College and Pasadena City College provide work-study tutors.