Welcome to Stride?

Here at STRIDE you will be able to enjoy our year round program with many resources. We observe national holidays and extended breaks at Christmas and summer.

At STRIDE we offer a daily program setting that helps you achieve your highest potential in educational, social, and recreational activities.

STRIDE utilizes the resources of the Whittier YMCA including the pool and fitness programs. We offer program hours from 8:30am-2:30pm Monday through Friday. We are glad you are showing interest in the STRIDE Program.

Program Staff   

• Lead Teacher - A credentialed teacher from the Whittier Adult School plans and directly implements the program including individual goals for you.
  
• Program Aides - Aides work with you to carry out the program goals, both in the community and in a small group learning environment.

Stride Program Courses 

• Daily Living Skills - This class offers you a wide spectrum of learning opportunities which include, but are not limited to, hygiene and grooming, shopping skills, cooking, telephone usage, laundry tasks and other household activities. 
• Practical Math - This instruction will guide you through he basics of time telling, using a calendar, counting and recognizing money, basic calculator usage, the fundamentals of budgeting, banking and check writing.  Emphasis is placed on using the skills learned to manage their own money, using catalogs and making purchases in the community.
  
• Computer Usage - Technology will allow you to learn additional skills using new software programs, websites, and the internet.
  
• Community - Our goal is increase your independence in community settings.  Activities include: community safety presentations, writing and/or recognizing their own name and being able to produce their I.D.  You will practice utilizating public transportation and community services.
  
• Library - You will be given practical experience in obtaining and being responsible for a library card, making book selections, checking out library materials and returning them on a timely basis. Responsibility includes paying any fines you have.
  
• Vocational - As students you will be preparing for a job participating in an open forum where a variety of issues are discussed (i.e., vocational choices and what they involve, appropriate dress and social behavior, interview skills and other student concerns).  You will also use known information to practice filling out forms and practice applications.  When it is appropriate you may be supported in a volunteer job placement.
  

Entrance Criteria for Stride Participants