Introduction
This case study on Adventurous Minds Produce Extraordinary Dreams (AMPED) offers unique insight into how community-based centers can serve as a catalyst of social change and family engagement. I culminate three years of data demonstrating AMPED as a community resource that connects families to the tools, knowledge, and networks that helps them make informed decisions about their child’s academic and social learning and development. In this process, families emerged as engaged leaders, advocates and decision-makers prepared to shift the learning landscape of children in Jefferson County and beyond.
In year three of the Kentucky Collaborative research study, AMPED continues to create a communal space where families can gather information and resources to better support their children, communities, and overall self-improvement. Findings highlight the transformation of AMPED, both in name and services offered, to ensure that they are meeting the direst needs of the communities they serve. Additionally, I continue the conversation of AMPED families and staff, and NCFL specialists in creating digital resources for educators and families to better partner together, the Equity in Family Engagement Toolkit and accompanying virtual reality component documented in the year 2 case study. Each section of the findings illustrates the program-level policies, practices, and conditions that support engaging and empowering families to advocate on behalf of their children and community.
Read the Kentucky Collaborative Final Evaluation Report: AMPED Case Study Year 3