KCFAA is dedicated to using the arts coupled with intensive personal development curriculum, including the empathy curriculum the Oakland Men’s Project—How to stop the violence that tears our lives apart—and creative writing classes. The project also implements structured recreational interventions and age-relevant strategically selected group discussion topics about reducing violence. These focused classes, workshops and field trips contribute to teaching improved critical thinking and problem solving and avoiding choices that could lead to crime and/or violent crime victimization.

KCFAA addresses this gap and implements innovate high-quality programs that studies show can help reduce/prevent youth violence victimization and youth criminal activities of during after-school and out-of-school times. KCFAA programming makes constructive learning activities—physical, social and emotional—and opportunities to form enduring and supportive relationships with adults accessible to youth at high risk for being victims, perpetrators or witnesses of violent crime, supporting youth in learning to make positive life choices at a critical period in their young lives. 

The project will serve 210 youth: 100 middle school age children through AileyCamp (AC) and approximately 108 high school students year-round through after-school programming, AileyCamp the Group (ACTG). 

AileyCamp, KCFAA’s signature program is made available for underserved youth during summer break. Students experience dance instruction on ballet, modern and jazz technique; and come to respect and learn the discipline and athletic ability required for dance are comparable to skills demanded by any sport. AileyCampers attend classes Monday through Friday 7:45 am to 2:45 pm. 

Classes in AILEYCAMP THE GROUP serves grades 6th-12th. These after-school classes are offered four days a week, September through May. The curriculum is broken into three skill levels of dance training in ballet, jazz, and modern dance; personal development classes focused on substance abuse prevention; peer relationships; and positive self-esteem. Through the program, students participate in a free public performance spring concert in May, in addition to a number of limited performances at area events, including at the Kauffman and Bolander Centers. ACTG members participated in a televised segment of Netflix’s original series Queer Eye, an Emmy-winning reality makeover show. The episode (Season 3 Episode 5) followed the transformation of a young black woman who struggled with identity issues, faced bullying and was disconnected from the black community. The show featured KCFAA ACTG girls meeting and sharing with her that they experienced some of the same struggles and how they overcame their struggles.

Students visit cultural institutions and have the opportunity to explore unique and cultural experiences. ACTG members participated in “Fire in the Heart,” a touring multi-media performance about trauma experiences by the artists and how they heal. Trips to experience American culture and diversity, including trips to different cities, take place quarterly for a minimal fee. During these trips, the students learn about each city's history, visit cultural institutions, and attend a performance or take a master class.

COMBAT Funding: $19,200.00