Rebecca Johnson, executive director of Boys and Girls Club of Washington County, described plans to establish an after-school community learning center in Belpre as speaker during the July 10 meeting of Belpre Rotary Club. The center will serve up to 30 Belpre Elementary School students the first year. Years two through five of the program will bring continuation and expansion of the program, she explained. The site will be at Belpre Church of the Nazarene, 1301 Putnam Howe Drive, with programs to include Power Hour to help in development of academic, behavioral and social skills through homework completion, high-yield learning activities and tutoring; DIY-STEM to promote interest in and awareness of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and provide STEM-related learning opportunities for traditionally underserved groups, including girls and young people of color; SMART Girls to help girls develop and adopt a healthy attitude and lifestyle, as well as to acquire and maintain a positive self-concept, sound decision-making skills and mentor relationships; and Passport to Manhood which teaches and promotes responsibility, reinforces positive behavior and develop character in adolescent males.

Fee structure will be $3 each day in attendance, with scholarships available.