UpSpring, a local nonprofit that supports the education of children experiencing homelessness, is expanding its programs to serve Butler and Clermont counties for the first time.
The expansion builds on UpSpring’s previous growth into Northern Kentucky in 2016 and increases the organization’s capacity to provide educational support and enrichment programs. The initiative comes in response to the rising number of youth experiencing homelessness in the region.
“This expansion provides an opportunity for UpSpring staff, donors, volunteers, and community partners to play a greater role in supporting youth education,” said Jordan Celestin, president of UpSpring’s board.
As part of the growth, UpSpring Summer 360º program will add a third camp site at Fairfield City School District, offering summer education to 65 additional students. The UpSpring After School program has expanded to 17 weekly programs, including one in West Clermont School District. The UpSpring Resource Collaborative will also broaden its efforts, with more than 7,000 essential items projected to be distributed to children and families this fiscal year.
Overall, the organization expects to reach an additional 440 children through its expansion.
“Our programs continue to show positive results, both academically and socially,” said Melissa Adamchik, UpSpring’s executive director. “This means more children are able to thrive and contribute to the community as adults.”
The expansion is made possible by funding support from the Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile, Jr. Foundation, the Imagine Learning Foundation and Impact 100, Inc. It also aligns with UpSpring’s three-year strategic plan, approved by its board in November 2023.
To support the growth, UpSpring has increased its staff to six full-time employees, along with seasonal teachers, interns, and volunteers.
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