Around the Bend | Giving Back

The Odyssey After School Enrichment Program Shaping Our Community One Child at a Time By: Jessica Picarazzi Photos: Courtesy The Odyssey After School Enrichment Program

What are you doing from 3 to 6 pm every day after school? For over 120 children in Aransas County, the answer to that question is simple! They know they are going to be learning, having fun, and that they will be safe, at The Odyssey After School Enrichment Program in Rockport, Texas.

26 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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he Odyssey program originated in 2003 after a survey showed more than half of first through sixth grade children in Aransas County were going home to empty houses after school. Odyssey began with a small group of students and a few adult volunteers and has since grown to include nine full classes, each with extensive waiting lists. The program has served well over 1,000 children in Aransas County since its inception. Odyssey’s mission is to strengthen and enhance the academic, physical, and psychological development of its students in a safe and nurturing environment.​Striving to provide a safe, community-based after-school program for children in Aransas County, they aim to enhance children’s academic achievements, to support positive social development and relationships, and to facilitate and strengthen the interaction between schools, families and community. They’re able to accomplish these goals through the wonderful support of many community organizations and the local school district, Aransas County ISD. An afternoon at Odyssey is full of opportunity! Each afternoon begins with a healthy snack, and they mean “healthy!” Children enjoy salads, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy sources of protein. Coastal Bend Health Foods in Rockport