For decades, an after-school tutorial program has been one of the foundations on which Concerned Citizens of Logan County has been built and grown. Funding has always been a stumbling block, though. Executive Director Dorris Vick—the guiding light and ever-present force behind Concerned Citizens—has always known many more children could be reached if more funding were available.

That dream has become a reality this year.

Thanks to a two-year grant from the E. Rhodes and Leona Carpenter Foundation totaling slightly over $200,000, the Concerned Citizens Tutorial Program appears ready to grow greatly this year.

Russellville Independent Schools leadership has pledged to work closely with Concerned Citizens to fill in gaps needed to help youngsters in their effort to comprehend what they are studying during the school day, says Archie Beck, also a force behind Concerned Citizens’ success and longevity.

Part of the funding is going toward the employment of two college-educated teachers, who will assist young students in math and language arts. Volunteers will also work with the youngsters and more are needed.

The 2021-22 Tutorial Program begins this Monday, Oct. 25. Sessions will be Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 4:30-6. Those involved will wear masks and socially distance in the large second-story room at the Concerned Citizens building, which is also known as the KP Hall.

Computers will be available, although any person or business who would be willing to furnish more computers would certainly be appreciated.

Applications need to be filled out and turned in Friday if possible. They are available at the Russellville schools’ offices and at the Concerned Citizens office.

Students in Logan County Schools are also welcome. Parents can come by the Concerned Citizens building at East Fifth Street to complete it.

The plan is to serve 30 youngsters, but Vick says if more need the service, they won’t be turned away.