Project Oasis

MNDC’s Project Oasis program provides opportunities year round for children and youth to benefit from education and recreational opportunities in a positive environment. Started in 1997 out of concern for the achievement gap amongst African American youth, the program creates a safe and nurturing space that allows kids to enhance their life skills, improve their academics and make friends. Caring volunteers and staff mentor the youth while keeping them accountable and helping them to aspire to their potential.

Summer Oasis, in partnership with Brother to Brother, is a free, six-week program for girls and boys between the ages of 8 - 18 residing in the Montclair and surrounding Essex County areas. The program operates at the Glenfield Campus, which consists of the Glenfield Park, Wally Choice Community Center, and Glenfield Middle School.

The primary focus of the Summer Oasis program is to give youth (especially those with limited alternatives during the summer) a fun, safe, positive, structured summer option. Certified teachers lead engaging, fun, and academically beneficial activities such as leisure reading and writing, workshops with knowledgeable adults on topics such as basic life skills and financial literacy, as well as games that strive to develop and strengthen their intellects and challenge their problem-solving abilities. Youth may also take advantage of the opportunity to build their talents and skills by participating in basketball and a photography group.

Summer Oasis is targeted to families with low to moderate incomes, however all are welcome to apply. To attend, participants must register and purchase a program t-shirt for $10. The 2019 season ran from Monday, July 1 - Friday, August 9, Monday - Friday from 5:00 - 8:30 p.m.