Inspire: A Shalom Afterschool Initiative (Inspire) is an afterschool program for middle school refugee students in Clarkston, Georgia under the aegis of Shalom International Ministry. Inspire strives to provide students a safe, constructive place to spend their afternoons; help students understand the language and academic content of their classes; foster positive relationships built across cultural and language groups; and encourage confidence, a sense of self, and a sense of belonging. Located within Memorial Drive Ministries, the afterschool program serves approximately 25 students ages 11-15 who live next door to the church campus. At Inspire, students eat snack, participate in enrichment activities (e.g., guitar, soccer, art, etc.), and receive academic support to assist them in their studies. 

At Shalom our vision is to “seek the Shalom of the community” by addressing the social, economic, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs of those around us. Through Inspire, we aim to seek Shalom by contributing to the holistic development of the middle school youth in our community. By providing homework assistance, learning activities to build basic reading and math skills, and opportunities for creative expression and physical health, we help students grow as critical thinkers, self-confident young adults, excited learners, and socially responsible community members.  We also work to empower family members to become engaged in their student’s academic success through regular home visits.