St. Mark Launches Annual School Supply Campaign to Support Over 3,600 Local Students

Back-to-school initiative now underway across Dubuque County and East Dubuque DUBUQUE COUNTY, Iowa, and EAST DUBUQUE, Ill. – As summer begins, St. Mark Youth Enrichment has officially launched its annual school supply campaign—Apples for Students: Fill the Bag—to ensure thousands of local students walk into school this fall with the tools they need to succeed. This year, the nonprofit expects to serve over 3,600 students across 30 elementary, middle, and high schools in the Dubuque, East Dubuque, and Western Dubuque districts. That number reflects a growing need, as many families continue to face economic uncertainty due to inflation, reduced work hours, and rising household expenses. “Many of our parents are struggling, and I’ve heard firsthand just how hard this year has been,” says Allyson Avenarius, Strategic Partnerships Coordinator at St. Mark. “This project lifts a real burden—giving kids the chance to show up on the first day of school feeling ready and confident.” A Unified Community Effort The campaign is made possible through the dedication of local volunteers, donors, and businesses. Through continued partnerships with Hartig Drug Stores and other community vendors, St. Mark can fill a complete backpack with the necessary school supplies, for just $59 per student. “This isn’t just about notebooks and pencils,” Avenarius adds. “It’s about providing peace of mind to families. It’s one less thing they have to worry about.” How to Get Involved Community members, businesses, and organizations can support the effort by: Donating online: www.stmarkyouthenrichment.org Volunteering or organizing a workplace drive: www.stmarkyouthenrichment.org/apples Email alavenarius@stmarkyouthenrichment.org or call 563-582-6211 ext. 102 If your family is in need of school supplies, please reach out to your child’s school counselor in August. St. Mark is committed to providing school supplies for every student attending a local Title 1 school. # # # About Apples for Students Apples for Students: Fill the Bag is a longstanding community initiative led by St. Mark Youth Enrichment. In 2024, the campaign supplied more than 3,600 students with fully stocked school bags—helping kids start their school year with confidence and a sense of belonging. St. Mark Youth Enrichment, formerly St. Mark Community Center, has served the Dubuque region for more than 35 years. The organization provides afterschool and summer programming for kindergarten through fifth grade students, emphasizing academic growth, social-emotional development, and nurturing environments of love and safety. Learn more at www.stmarkyouthenrichment.org.

Make This Summer Unforgettable: St. Mark’s Heroes Camp 2025 is Open for Registration!

Limited spots available—secure your child’s place in this high-energy, adventure-filled experience. DUBUQUE COUNTY, Iowa – Summer is more than just a break from school—it’s an opportunity for kids to grow, explore, and thrive. St. Mark’s Heroes Camp 2025 is back, and this year’s program is set to be bigger and better than ever. For five weeks, kids entering grades K-5 in Fall 2025 will dive into a world of hands-on learning, outdoor adventures, and creative discovery. With locations in Dubuque and Dyersville, Heroes Camp is designed to keep young minds active, boost literacy skills, and spark curiosity in an exciting and supportive environment. This is not just another summer camp. This is where kids build confidence, make lifelong friends, and return to school in the fall feeling stronger, smarter, and ready to take on the world. Spots are limited, and registration is now open—don’t wait! Program Details Dates: June 16 – July 25, 2025 (No camp the week of July 4) Time: Morning sessions Who Can Attend: Students entering grades K-5 in Fall 2025 Cost: $500 for the full five-week experience Afternoon Care Option – Limited Availability For families in Dubuque, an afternoon care program is available in partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Dubuque. This option is open to students entering 2nd grade and up. Space is limited, so early registration is strongly encouraged. Why Heroes Camp? Because Every Child Deserves an Extraordinary Summer. For more than 30 years, St. Mark Youth Enrichment has been creating life-changing summer experiences for children. Heroes Camp is built on the belief that learning should never stop, and summer should be filled with opportunities to grow. Here’s what makes it unforgettable: A strong focus on literacy and reading skills – Because staying engaged over summer prevents learning loss. STEAM activities (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) – Hands-on experiments and creative challenges that make learning exciting. Outdoor exploration and physical activity – Keeping kids active, engaged, and connected to the world around them. Guest speakers, field trips, and real-world experiences – Bringing education to life in ways that kids will remember forever. A team of passionate educators – Dedicated to making each child feel supported, encouraged, and ready to shine. How to Register Sign up now at www.stmarkyouthenrichment.org/programs/summer Questions? Contact afoley@stmarkyouthenrichment.org Powered by Our Community Heroes Camp is made possible through the generosity of local partners, donors, and grantors, including: Boys & Girls Club of Greater Dubuque St. John’s Episcopal Church Dubuque Masonic Temple Dyersville Elementary About St. Mark Youth Enrichment For more than three decades, St. Mark Youth Enrichment has been dedicated to fueling academic growth, social-emotional development, and enrichment opportunities for children in Dubuque, Dyersville, and surrounding communities. To learn more, visit www.stmarkyouthenrichment.org.

St. Mark Early Childhood Center: Redefining Early Childhood Education through Nature-Based Learning

DUBUQUE, Iowa — As communities across the nation recognize the critical role of nature in early childhood development, St. Mark Youth Enrichment is set to lead the charge with the groundbreaking of its new Early Childhood Center, scheduled to open on September 1, 2025. This innovative facility will serve children from birth to age four, emphasizing the integration of nature-based learning with a focus on social-emotional health. This effort is further bolstered by St. Mark’s role as a key partner in Dubuque’s recent selection as a Nature Everywhere Community, a national initiative to increase equitable access to nature for children. The Case for Nature in Early Childhood Recent studies have illuminated the profound benefits of outdoor play and nature immersion for young children. Research indicates that engaging children in nature can enhance focus, impulse control, and overall well-being. According to the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), strong social-emotional learning programs can yield an 11% increase in academic performance. Through its participation in the Nature Everywhere initiative, St. Mark is collaborating with local leaders and organizations to connect young children with nature while addressing climate resiliency. This aligns seamlessly with the center’s mission to foster curiosity, resilience, and emotional intelligence in children. “Nature is a powerful tool for early childhood development, improving physical health, academic outcomes, and emotional well-being,” said Danielle Willis, Director of Early Childhood at St. Mark Youth Enrichment. St. Mark’s Commitment to Growth St. Mark Youth Enrichment has long been a pillar of support for families in the Dubuque area, serving as a model for innovative educational practices. For over 35 years, St. Mark has adapted to the changing needs of the community, recently selling its original buildings to refocus its resources on enriching educational experiences for children and families. This strategic decision reflects the organization’s commitment to evolve and better serve the community. In the 2023-24 school year, St. Mark served 247 students through after-school and summer programs, achieving a 79% regular attendance rate. Notably, 97% of participants improved or maintained their literacy skills over the summer, while 85% demonstrated high levels of social-emotional skills. A Holistic Approach to Learning The upcoming Early Childhood Center will feature thoughtfully designed space, incorporating dedicated areas for nature play and exploration. Children will have abundant opportunities for outdoor engagement, immersing themselves in hands-on activities that promote creativity and wonder. St. Mark’s curriculum will integrate the Growing Up Wild program, which fosters environmental awareness and encourages young children to connect with nature through exploration and discovery. This approach aligns with the organization’s core pillars: Social Emotional Health: Nurturing emotional intelligence through nature play and exploration. Nature Exploration: Encouraging child-led, hands-on experiences that foster curiosity. Learning Lab & Training Model: Creating a ripple effect of positive impact by training others in the community to embrace social-emotional well-being. A Call to Action for Community Support To realize the vision for the St. Mark Early Childhood Center, the organization is in the midst of a capital campaign. St. Mark invites funders, community leaders, and businesses to join this transformative initiative, as their support is essential for creating a nurturing environment that prioritizes children’s well-being and development. “Your investment in St. Mark Youth Enrichment will help foster a generation of compassionate, resilient individuals who will positively contribute to our community,” said Jon Aguilar, Marketing & Development Coordinator. For more information on how to support the St. Mark Early Childhood Center, visit stmarkyouthenrichment.org/early-childhood or contact Jon Aguilar at (563) 582-6211, ext. 102 or via email at jaguilar@stmarkyouthenrichment.org.