Arwa's Story

As an ABLE Member, I feel like I'm making a difference not only in the lives of the students, but in the lives of those who interact with them as well. I think they're slowly adopting more positive attitudes and that's benefiting themselves and the people around them. I’ve developed many positive relationships with these students. Some consider me a friend, others consider me a fun teacher. Most of them feel comfortable talking to me about anything that’s on their mind, whether it has to do with their hobbies or with their personal struggles. I’m a familiar face and another source of support for these students. I think that has caused our relationships to flourish and their confidence to grow.

In 2019, ABLE changed education focus for the first time in 16 years. ABLE is now directly impacting Early Childhood education, preparing three and four year olds for Kindergarten using math games! ABLE Members are serving at thirteen Head Start centers across Western New York, thereby closing an academic gap for more than 110 four-year-olds on the path to becoming Kindergarten ready.