March Gladness — EduCare Foundation

EduCare is growing and having more of a positive impact than ever!

This spring, we’re celebrating the outstanding success of our staff and students.

Welcome to

Of course, in that other March event, it’s a competition among divisions that gradually get weeded out till one remains standing. However, as you’ll see, there’s no division here, because everyone who plays comes out on top!

The winning entry for EduCare's 2024 March Gladness is:

Below, you’ll find all entries from students, staff members, supporters, and board members.

We asked students why they are glad to participate in EduCare’s programs. We asked staff members why they are glad to work with EduCare, and we asked supporters and board members why they are glad to support EduCare.

We invite you to scroll through these wonderful statements of gladness.

Just click the arrows to navigate left or right, and enjoy!

I get to make a positive difference in their lives.

Crystal J., EduCare Staff, Legacy High School
It allows me to connect with students through SEL support. I am able to provide them with a variety of support through this program, to give me a better connection with them.

Taiz B., EduCare Staff, Public Service Community School
It brings a lot of joy to my life, being with my friends and the EduCare staff.

Christopher A., Student, Lynwood High School
I am glad that I participate in EduCare programs because I feel like I belong and always have a place to talk with others. Moreover I'm glad to participate in EduCare as the programs are always fun and engaging. Overall, I enjoy the the time I spend at EduCare after school.

Diego L., Student, RFK Community Schools – NOW Academy (March Gladness winner!)
I’m able to help students.

Brandol R., EduCare Staff, Lynwood High School
I help build their self-esteem and life skills. I get to work with children from different backgrounds and get to learn to better understand the community.

Blancalilia O., EduCare Staff, Lynwood High School
The love spread by EduCare multiplies over time and across communities as more students take part!

Jolie M., EduCare Board Member & Supporter
It gives me the opportunity to stay after school and explore an interest that I’ve developed and cannot be perceived at home. For instance, I’ve found out that EduCare offered one of my favorite sports, softball. I have been able to experience this interest with great joy, build skills from it, and develop a big passion.

Maggie D., Student, DRLC – Public Service Commmunity School
It is making high school a better, cooler fun experience. I really enjoy staying after school for their events.

Aliya T., Student, CCLA – ASE
I get to support and mentor our youth. I have the opportunity to have a positive impact on their lives and be a part of their educational journey.

Mayra T., EduCare Staff, RFK Community School
They help very much with college applications.

Edwin A., Student, Amelia Earhart High School
They provide me with activities and sports after school where I meet new people and have fun.

Alexander A., Student, Abraham Lincoln Senior High School
I am glad that I participate in EduCare's programs because It allows me to gain and refine my social skills.

Bryan G., Student, Artes
I can provide them with a safe and supportive space that allows them to be kids.

Karen P., EduCare Staff, RFK Community School
The staff provide their best support and make it a fun and positive environment to be in. I enjoy talking and being around them, I also admire their work ethic.

Isela V., Student, CCLA – ArTes
Their events allow me to have an escape from school work. For example, I remember when they were giving free breakfast in the morning during finals weeks, or the semesterly puppy parties they host for all students to enjoy. I have also taken part in their driver's ed program to further my knowledge on the road.

Frida L., Student, Social Justice Humanitas Academy
Because EduCare provides funding to our students and our clubs.

Jeffrey L., Student, Abraham Lincoln High School
It is a fun environment to be in. Apart from all the fun, the staff that are within EduCare are really nice and all have a really nice vibe. I know that I can count on them whenever I need support mentally and academically. I am really thankful for everything they do for their students and how kind they are towards them as well.

Samantha S., Student, Sylmar Charter High School
They provide new experiences for me as a student and help me go out my comfort zone via trying new hobbies and activities. I also enjoy how they provide supplies for clubs such as MESA (Math Engineering Science Achievement). I hope EduCare continues to prosper so they can bring even more opportunities to students like me.

Cesar O., Student, Abraham Lincoln Senior High Schol
They provide with me with various resources and have given me the opportunity to know students from various backgrounds. I am grateful for educare staff and the program itself.

Brianna C., Student, Sylmar Biotech Health & Engineering Magnet
It is fun to be a part of a program, and it is a good thing to help around.

Juliana O., Student, Sylmar Charter High School
I get to show my son that by helping the youth be strong mentally and emotionally we are creating a brighter future for them.

Joseph M., Staff, EduCare Foundation
It makes me feel a part of something important and attentive to my school.

Dayanara G., Student, Mission High School
It helps me find way to connect and communicate with others outside of my confort zone.

Jazmin L., Student, Sylmar Biotech Health & Engineering Magnet
It is a place of comfort.

Anson L., Student, Abraham Lincoln Senior High School
We get to serve our students in multiple growth opportunities. As a staff member, I get to help students build their resumes through tutoring and college readiness. I also get to help our schools running coach, as well as the students.

Jeffrey H., EduCare Staff, RFK Community Schools
It is a helpful learning program in our school.

Leobardo G., Student, Public Service Community School
I can make a meaningful impact on students’ education and future, as well as providing me the opportunity to inspire, support, and empower them to reach their full potential.

Jacqaline F., EduCare Staff, Lynwood High School
I am glad that I participate in EduCare's programs because of the resources they provide. They allow my volleyball team to be able to practice during the summer.

Eric H., Student, Abraham Lincoln High School
I get to support and mentor our youth. I have the opportunity to have a positive impact on their lives and be a part of their educational journey. I get to help the community I grew up in & get to be a part of providing services that expand students' horizons.

Mayra T., EduCare Staff, RFK Community Schools
I take a part in important events in my school.

Leslie, Student, Mission High School
I get to participate in multiple events, be part of different clubs, and get tutoring help.

Katerine F., Student, Sylmar Biotech Health & Engineering Magnet
I like it because they make me feel like family; they always find ways to make us happy.

Mia V., Student, Animo Ellen Ochoa Charter Middle School
I can make a difference in their lives. Educare cares about students and can change their lives.

Kevyn M., EduCare Staff, Diego Rivera Learning Complex
It helps me keep active in my school.

Bianca C., Student, Sylmar Biotech Health & Engineering Magnet
I'm glad to participate in EduCare's programs because of the various events they hold, like the puppy parties, breakfast in the morning during finals weeks, and give pizza. They do driver's ed, tutoring, dance. Many different things that I’ve enjoyed, especially in my senior year.

Breanna V., Student, Social Justice Humanitas Academy
It gives me many resources for my school work and colleges.

Dafne P., Student, Sylmar Biotech Health & Engineering Magnet
I am able to make connections with youth and help them achieve their academic goals. We believe that these students are more than just numbers; they are actual humans and need mental and educational support.

Jocelyn L., Staff, Laurel CACT
I get to be a part of future events and a part of some of the school decisions.

Adam S., Student, Mission High School
Every day I can see we make an impact in one way or another on the youth. As much as we are teaching and making sure the youth is impacted, they impact us without knowing it.

Oscar G., EduCare Staff, Jordan High School
They provide a safe environment and adult supervision.

Luan V., Student, Lincoln High School
I got to meet new people and experience new things with them.

Daniel C., Student, Sylmar Biotech Health & Engineering Magnet
EduCare provides money to our clubs and provides food to our athletes.

Mark L., Student, Abraham Lincoln High School
It allows me to build relationships with students and encourage them to academically succeed. My program managers are understanding and are always ready to provide support.

Briana A., EduCare Staff, Laurel Cinematic Arts and Creative Technologies Magnet
They allow me to spend my afterschool time productively.

Sofia G., Student, Sylmar Charter High School
I enjoy having fun with the afterschool staff. Especially because they always have fun programming.

Delia M., Student, Ánimo Ellen Ochoa Charter Middle School
They are so much fun and I made lots of new friends.

Iliana Q., Student, Sylmar Biotech Health & Engineering Magnet
I am glad that I participate in EduCare’s programs because I have connected with the staff so much & really appreciate how the senior site coordinator herself has given me so much support in anything that I need. This program is my safe space and I feel very welcomed here with all the programs it provides.

Evelin S., Student, Diego Rivera Learning Center – Communication & Tech
I can show skills and eat food.

Joseph L., Student, Sylmar Biotech Health & Engineering Magnet
They are fun and inclusive.

Damian E., Student, Sylmar Biotech Health & Engineering Magnet
I get to give the love, patience, and understanding that I needed as a youth growing up in an unstable environment. I get to be a voice of inspiration and admiration for the students I serve. Everyone working at EduCare has the same heart and love for their students and schools. I get to share that with them and learn from them.

Alison A., Staff, EduCare Foundation
It provides care and fun activities.

Bryan V., Student, Synergy Quantum Academy
I am glad that I can work with students through EduCare programs because it allows me to make a positive impact on their lives, fostering their growth, learning, and development, which ultimately contributes to a brighter future for our society. It gives me the opportunity to inspire and empower young minds every day, knowing that I'm making a difference in their lives fills me with purpose and fulfillment.

Lisseth V. S., EduCare Staff, Sylmar Biotech Health & Engineering Magnet
EduCare has allowed me to explore and learn of things in our community that aren't taught in our classes. Furthermore it allows me to freely express myself and communicate with others.

Damian R., Student, Cesar Chavez Learning Complex
Good activities!

Angel L., Student, Maya Angelou High School
I like meeting new people.

Student, Maya Anglou High School
I can make a difference. I'm always happy to assist all EduCare staff.

Arturo C., Staff, EduCare Foundation
It’s fun and enjoyable.

Angel A., Student, Synergy Quantum Academy
It's fun!

Bryan, Student, Maya Angelou High School
They really help me when times are rough.

Stephanie Q., Student, Public Service Community School
They have given me all the kindness and support I need everyday after school. The staff are amazing and I met my best friends there too.

Rivkah B., Student, Van Nuys High School
I am glad that I participate in EduCare's program because the staff here help me with my homework and because I get to do sports.

Romualdo B., Student, Walnut Park Midde School STEM
I'm glad to be with EduCare after school to help improve stuff.

Carlos G., Student, Cesar Chavez Learning Complex
I get to empower the younger generation. EduCare has provided me with the tools necessary to keep students coming back.

Belen H., EduCare Staff, Ánimo Jefferson Charter Middle School
Weight room!

Rene V., Student, Maya Angelou High School
It allows me to give back to my community and touch the hearts of students. It allows me to build unknown skills that I had not yet developed.

Vanessa H., EduCare staff
I feel like I am in a safe environment. I like creating new bonds here.

Jasmine E., Student, Synergy Quantum Academy
I have so must fun and EduCare is my safe space.

Evelyn R., Student, Maya Angelou High School
I met so many wonderful people.

Damaurea W., Student, Maya Angelou High School
It gives me the opportunity to share my knowledge and be apart of students high school experience. Being able to work with these students allows me to spread the awareness of the opportunities afterschool offers as well as in class support systems. There are a lot of different things students can do during our programming as well as being able to make there own interest come to life with a little help and supervision.

Angelica G., EduCare staff, Cesar Chavez Learning Complex
It keeps me connected to something I care deeply about - public education. I love the loving and caring that EduCare brings to students, teachers, parents and their staff.

Katherine H., EduCare Foundation board member and supporter
I'm glad to work with EduCare because I get to know about each individual student. I enjoy being able to be with my students and get to talk to them about their day, how they are doing, and I get to do fun activities with EduCare and the school.

Ruby L., EduCare staff, Walnut Park Middle School
I am able to get to know the students in my own community and spend some time helping them with their work and getting to know them a bit more. It is a program that has been around since I was in middle and high school and I know how sometimes it can get hard when you have to stay after school but the staff always made it fun and exciting to be at so I want to share a bit of what I received back to the students in my community.

Asuzena V., EduCare Staff, Walnut Park Middle School
It is fun and I can be here until someone picks me up.

Damien R., Student, Walnut Park Middle School
I feel like a part of the community and a part of a greater cause. I love that EduCare is such a giving foundation and I plan to help EduCare for years to come.

Angel D., Student, Cesar Chavez Learning Academy
Because I can socialize, it makes me feel calm I can also take a break from my house and family and I love the clubs. I like the programs there and in the gaming club I can just chill and also during homework time I am able to finish all my work, so I do not have any homework at home.

Isabel R., Student, Walnut Park Middle School STEM
I like to teach them good skills in life. It's an amazing program for students that need more help.

Julio D., Student, Cesar Chavez Learning Academy
The weight room!

Chelsey E.., Student, Maya Angelou High School
I enjoy seeing the students have fun and enjoy spending more time at school. I enjoy the experience of working with middle school and high school children.

Zoe C., EduCare Staff, Valley Oaks Center for Enriched Studies
It allows me to make a small difference in students' lives, and I’m glad that I can share my knowledge and experience with them. The team I work with is amazing and makes my job very enjoyable – as well as my experience with the students here.

Jacquelyn I., EduCare Staff, Cesar Chavez Learning Academy
My friends are here with me.

Christopher D., Student, Maya Angelou High School
It’s fun and there’s a lot of events.

Kaylee E., Student, Walnut Park Middle School STEM
They have provided me opportunities that I would have never been able to be a part of. It has also helped me become a great member of a sport.

Sheila H., Student, STEAM Legacy High School
I get to meet new people and spend more time at school 😃

Kirsten M., Student, Legacy High School – VAPA
It’s a great way to help students. It's very supportive.

Julio A., EduCare Staff, 107th Street Elementary School
I am able to learn the different ways each student acts and their interesting stories of how school is. It creates a ton of new learning opportunities for all staff.

Brandon D., EduCare Staff, Valley. Oaks Center of Enriched Studies
I am glad that I participate in Educare programs because ultimately, Educare is where I’ve met so many new people that I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to meet if it weren’t for the clubs that I’m in. Additionally, I’ve been able to better my social, leadership, and communication skills that had been almost depleted during quarantine.

Jackeline H., Student, STEAM Legacy High School
They provided many activities and it’s fun to attend, there’s different and many events which makes the program fun.

Katherine C., Student, Walnut Park Middle School
It introduces me to new and fun experiences and the staff are super friendly and make me feel welcomed.

Miranda N., Student, International Studies Learning Center
They do a bunch of fun things.

Jaylene, Student, Walnut Park Middle School
Kids can enjoy and learn at the same time while they wait till parents pick them up. I enjoy working with students and can help with homework assignments and can enjoy running a class for them to enjoy as well.

Nora D., EdCare Staff, Walnut ark Middle School
It helps me feel happy, my teammates make me feel welcomed and appreciated like a family and I can always tell them stuff - it’s like our little family. I love the staff as well because they are so nice and friendly, I can talk to them anytime without feeling like I’m going to get judged.

Elena H., Student, Legacy High School – VAPA
I am able to stay active and meet new people through clubs and sports.

Jasmin Q., Student, International Studies Learning Center
I'm glad to work with EduCare because I gain experience with kids!

Joselyn L., EduCare Staff, 107th Street ElementarySchool
It gives me a chance to experience what it is like to work in a teaching environment, leading to me wanting to pursue a career in education. I genuinely enjoy teaching kids and watching them understand the curriculum.

Aaron R., EduCare Staff, 107th Street Elementary School
I am glad that I participate in EduCare's programs because I feel safe and welcomed.

Nina R., Student, Legacy High School – VAPA
I feel part of a family. Everyone on the team has made me feel included and has really put me out there to try new things. I feel more confident and comfortable talking with new people and encourage others to join. It has made my life so much happier as I feel I am part of something amazing.

Vanessa F., Student, STEAM Legacy High School
Our programs save lives. Our work makes a difference in the lives of those who attend our programs.

Edgar C., Staff, EduCare Foundation
It helps me become more creative.

Dulce G., Student, Legacy High School
We make a difference in the lives of our students and the communities we serve. EduCare delivers on so many levels.

Mike R., Staff, EduCare Foundation
People are welcoming and always care about you.

Emily F., Student, International Studies Learning Center
I love the passion they have for their sport. I love working with kids.

Alexa, EduCare Staff, Valley Oaks Center for Enriched Studies
It is very fun!

Karol P., Student, STEAM Legacy High School
I believe in EduCare's mission!

Victoria H., EduCare Supporter
I'm glad to work with EduCare because of the environment and relationship with the students. I appreciate the foundation and support we provide for the kids.

Alexzy R., EduCare Staff, 107th Street Elementary School
The community is very supportive, and I met a lot of new people when i had trouble. The programs are really fun.

Annalynn F., Student, Legacy High School Visual and Performing Arts
I love being able to talk to the kids and connect with them. Make arts & crafts things such as bracelets and painting canvases with them. It is an amazing experience to get to know the kids that I work with and guide them through their middle school years.

Joana C., EduCare Staff, Vaughn Middle School M.I.T.
EduCare is a necessity for afterschool students who need a safe environment. Students are the future and we must supply activities that will further their growth.

Erick B., EduCare Staff, SFiAM
I am so glad that I participate in EduCare’s programs because it has led me to so many positive opportunities and has kept me on track to graduate.

Maya, Student, Downtown Magnets High School
I focused my undergraduate degree in teaching, and though I am not a teacher by academic standards, I am still able to provide knowledge to students through the pedagogies I have developed. There is growth within EduCare.

Jesus M., EduCare Staff, Vaughn Charter School M.I.T.
I believe that Love IS the foundation of education. EduCare makes a difference in the world.

Lynn F., EduCare Foundation Supporter
I as a coach can help them with things they need, when they need a trusting adult to talk to about their problems or just having that good connection with students. EduCare is very flexible with my class schedule and time. They are also very welcoming.

Marylin O., EduCare Staff, SFiAM
There are many clubs to pick from.

Jaden G., Student, SFiAM
I can see them grow, they become more comfortable with other students. I see how students open up to working with other students.

Silvia A., EduCare Staff, Downtown Magnets High School

Welcome to

The winning entry for EduCare's 2024 March Gladness is:

Below, you’ll find all entries from students, staff members, supporters, and board members.

We asked students why they are glad to participate in EduCare’s programs. We asked staff members why they are glad to work with EduCare, and we asked supporters and board members why they are glad to support EduCare.

We invite you to scroll through these wonderful statements of gladness.

I get to make a positive difference in their lives.

It allows me to connect with students through SEL support. I am able to provide them with a variety of support through this program, to give me a better connection with them.

It brings a lot of joy to my life, being with my friends and the EduCare staff.

I am glad that I participate in EduCare programs because I feel like I belong and always have a place to talk with others. Moreover I'm glad to participate in EduCare as the programs are always fun and engaging. Overall, I enjoy the the time I spend at EduCare after school.

I’m able to help students.

I help build their self-esteem and life skills. I get to work with children from different backgrounds and get to learn to better understand the community.

The love spread by EduCare multiplies over time and across communities as more students take part!

It is making high school a better, cooler fun experience. I really enjoy staying after school for their events.

I get to support and mentor our youth. I have the opportunity to have a positive impact on their lives and be a part of their educational journey.

They help very much with college applications.

They provide me with activities and sports after school where I meet new people and have fun.

I am glad that I participate in EduCare's programs because It allows me to gain and refine my social skills.

I can provide them with a safe and supportive space that allows them to be kids.

The staff provide their best support and make it a fun and positive environment to be in. I enjoy talking and being around them, I also admire their work ethic.

Because EduCare provides funding to our students and our clubs.

They provide with me with various resources and have given me the opportunity to know students from various backgrounds. I am grateful for educare staff and the program itself.

It is fun to be a part of a program, and it is a good thing to help around.

I get to show my son that by helping the youth be strong mentally and emotionally we are creating a brighter future for them.

It makes me feel a part of something important and attentive to my school.

It helps me find way to connect and communicate with others outside of my confort zone.

It is a place of comfort.

We get to serve our students in multiple growth opportunities. As a staff member, I get to help students build their resumes through tutoring and college readiness. I also get to help our schools running coach, as well as the students.

It is a helpful learning program in our school.

I can make a meaningful impact on students’ education and future, as well as providing me the opportunity to inspire, support, and empower them to reach their full potential.

I am glad that I participate in EduCare's programs because of the resources they provide. They allow my volleyball team to be able to practice during the summer.

I get to support and mentor our youth. I have the opportunity to have a positive impact on their lives and be a part of their educational journey. I get to help the community I grew up in & get to be a part of providing services that expand students' horizons.

I take a part in important events in my school.

I get to participate in multiple events, be part of different clubs, and get tutoring help.

I like it because they make me feel like family; they always find ways to make us happy.

I can make a difference in their lives. Educare cares about students and can change their lives.

It helps me keep active in my school.

I'm glad to participate in EduCare's programs because of the various events they hold, like the puppy parties, breakfast in the morning during finals weeks, and give pizza. They do driver's ed, tutoring, dance. Many different things that I’ve enjoyed, especially in my senior year.

It gives me many resources for my school work and colleges.

I am able to make connections with youth and help them achieve their academic goals. We believe that these students are more than just numbers; they are actual humans and need mental and educational support.

I get to be a part of future events and a part of some of the school decisions.

Every day I can see we make an impact in one way or another on the youth. As much as we are teaching and making sure the youth is impacted, they impact us without knowing it.

They provide a safe environment and adult supervision.

I got to meet new people and experience new things with them.

EduCare provides money to our clubs and provides food to our athletes.

It allows me to build relationships with students and encourage them to academically succeed. My program managers are understanding and are always ready to provide support.

They allow me to spend my afterschool time productively.

I enjoy having fun with the afterschool staff. Especially because they always have fun programming.

They are so much fun and I made lots of new friends.

I can show skills and eat food.

They are fun and inclusive.

It provides care and fun activities.

EduCare has allowed me to explore and learn of things in our community that aren't taught in our classes. Furthermore it allows me to freely express myself and communicate with others.

Good activities!

I like meeting new people.

I can make a difference. I'm always happy to assist all EduCare staff.

It’s fun and enjoyable.

It's fun!

They really help me when times are rough.

They have given me all the kindness and support I need everyday after school. The staff are amazing and I met my best friends there too.

I am glad that I participate in EduCare's program because the staff here help me with my homework and because I get to do sports.

I'm glad to be with EduCare after school to help improve stuff.

I get to empower the younger generation. EduCare has provided me with the tools necessary to keep students coming back.

Weight room!

It allows me to give back to my community and touch the hearts of students. It allows me to build unknown skills that I had not yet developed.

I feel like I am in a safe environment. I like creating new bonds here.

I have so must fun and EduCare is my safe space.

I met so many wonderful people.

It keeps me connected to something I care deeply about - public education. I love the loving and caring that EduCare brings to students, teachers, parents and their staff.

I'm glad to work with EduCare because I get to know about each individual student. I enjoy being able to be with my students and get to talk to them about their day, how they are doing, and I get to do fun activities with EduCare and the school.

It is fun and I can be here until someone picks me up.

I feel like a part of the community and a part of a greater cause. I love that EduCare is such a giving foundation and I plan to help EduCare for years to come.

Because I can socialize, it makes me feel calm I can also take a break from my house and family and I love the clubs. I like the programs there and in the gaming club I can just chill and also during homework time I am able to finish all my work, so I do not have any homework at home.

I like to teach them good skills in life. It's an amazing program for students that need more help.

The weight room!

I enjoy seeing the students have fun and enjoy spending more time at school. I enjoy the experience of working with middle school and high school children.

It allows me to make a small difference in students' lives, and I’m glad that I can share my knowledge and experience with them. The team I work with is amazing and makes my job very enjoyable – as well as my experience with the students here.

My friends are here with me.

It’s fun and there’s a lot of events.

They have provided me opportunities that I would have never been able to be a part of. It has also helped me become a great member of a sport.

I get to meet new people and spend more time at school 😃