Children & Families of Iowa to Host Summer 2021 Jump Start Tutoring Program

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Brian Mamola, VP corporate actuarial of FBL Financial Group/CFI board of directors president (2021-2022), stands beside Joe Fortelka, director of information technology of FBL, with technology donations for Jump Start.

Children & Families of Iowa (CFI) will be hosting the Jump Start Tutoring program for students Pre-K thru 8th grade. This program originated through the combined efforts and interest of Corinthian Baptist Development and two retired principals, Kittie Knauer and Bobbretta Brewton. The goal of the program is to address the digital divide in marginalized populations by using technology to connect virtually with students and their families.

CFI was selected to host the summer 2021 tutoring program with funding through United Way of Central Iowa. The program will utilize tutors from Des Moines and surrounding communities to assist families in assessing gaps in math and reading skills development in connection to resources for solution. The program launched June 21 and will operate through August 13.

As this has been an unprecedented year of change and transition for both kids and families in the community, we are grateful for the show of support of our efforts in providing this much needed resource for kids and families in the Des Moines and surrounding communities.

We are thankful to our community partners and collaboration with private corporations that makes this program available for the 160 plus students enrolled.

    • Farm Bureau Financial Group – Brian Mamola, VP Corporate Actuarial
    • Farm Bureau Financial Group- Joe Fortelka, Director of Information Technology
    • Children Families Urban Mission – Mark Slokum, Interim Executive Director
    • Oakridge Neighborhood Services – Almardi Abdalla, Vice President of Family & Workforce Programs
    • Drake University, Department of Education – Dr. Ryan Wise
    • More to come on the success of the students through-out the summer.