Anita Whitlow

Open Doors Academy (ODA) is a developmental enrichment and leadership program for youth during out-of-school time. We work to protect, inspire, nurture, and challenge youth to reach their full potential. The program was established in 1992 as an afterschool drop-in program at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Cleveland Heights. In 2002, ODA became an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. ODA now serves over 1,000 scholars and their families at over 15 sites across Northeast Ohio and beyond. Scholars participate in project-based learning experiences and receive academic tutoring built around their developmental needs. In the summer, full-day camps and service-learning trips begin in mid-June and run for 7-8 weeks. At the core of the program is building a safe haven filled with support, creating a sense of community, and fostering the kids’ confidence. Our staff works closely with classroom teachers, principals and other community partners to support our scholars in their learning experience. In addition to our daily programming, parents are encouraged to demonstrate a commitment to their child's education, by participating in parent education workshops, family events, and supporting their child's experience as they grow and develop with ODA.