Pathway to Purpose

PATHWAYS TO PURPOSE
SUMMER EXPERIENCE 2026

Program Overview

Sisters of Charity have big plans for Central youth for Summer 2026, with the development of Pathways to Purpose Summer Experience! The newly designed programming is a holistic, community-based learning and enrichment experience designed for 1,500 youth ages 5 – 18 who either live in the neighborhood or attend Central schools. To ensure that youth have a quality experience Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) have been developed and a team from Case Western Reserve University will independently evaluate the program at conclusion.

Operating June 15 – August 7 (Monday–Saturday), the program provides structured academic enrichment, workforce exposure, mentorship, creative expression, and family engagement. This initiative is designed to reduce summer learning loss, increase workforce readiness, strengthen social-emotional skills, and connect youth to trusted adults and positive community resources.

Core Program Pillars

1. Academic Enrichment &
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

Literacy and Math learning recovery
STEAM programming
Mental wellness workshops and physical fitness opportunities
Financial Literacy workshops

2. Workforce & Career Pathways

Career Pathway exposure including skilled trades and entrepreneurship
Creative industries (media, arts, production)
Industry site visits and guest professionals

3. Mentoring & Leadership Development

Trained adult mentors
Youth ambassador opportunities
Leadership skill-building with civic engagement opportunities
Positive identity development

4. Creative Expression & Community Engagement

Visual and performing arts
Storytelling and youth voice projects
Community showcases

5. Family & Community Connection

Parent engagement sessions
Resource navigation
Community events

Program Locations:

Cuyahoga Community College
CMSD School Locations (Marian Sterling, East Tech High School)
Community Locations (Friendly Inn, The Gardens of Fairfax, Fairhill Partners, Care Alliance)

Why This Program Matters

Youth in historically under-resourced communities face increased barriers to academic success, career exposure, and mental wellness. Pathways to Purpose directly addresses: