Afterschool Program

KOM provides an afterschool program for Karen and Karenni youth at Washington Technology Magnet Middle School and High School and Como Senior High School.

During the afterschool program, KOM teaches leadership training, health education, and cultural activities. Students also have an opportunity to receive tutoring support from our youth development coordinators and volunteer tutors. Renamed by our youth themselves, the Knya’Ni Club aims to be an inclusive space for both Karen (Knyaw) and Karenni students.

As student Lay Lay shares, “Joining Knya’Ni club was one of the best decisions I’ve made, I got to meet new people and made so many fun memories with them.”

Sign-up here to join our afterschool program

The program also guides middle and high school age youth in exploring their college and career options.

The “What’s Next?” programming covers some of the basics of career planning, such as resume writing and interview skills building. Youth in the program will also learn about applying for college and how to secure financial aid that is right for them. There is also an opportunity to receive academic tutoring.

In the program, youth also explore career paths and build on their experience through finding internships and volunteer opportunities. Included in the course is a financial literacy component, developed with the help of the University of Minnesota.

We want to help students and young adults find the right career, and help them in the steps to getting there. This program is open to any ethnicity.

Contact

For more information about the afterschool programs, contact Pong Pop, KOM Youth Development Coordinator.

The “What’s Next?” programming is funded by the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED)