FEATURE ARTICLE
Wow! What an incredible summer!
“Stretched, shifted, and lifted” may be the best way to describe the phenomenal experience we shared during the 2026 Discover WORKS Summer Program. What began on June 29 at the Ponds Learning Center became six weeks filled with education, enrichment, adventure, laughter, new friendships, and memories that will last far beyond the summer.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Students strengthen their academic skills through engaging classroom instruction.
Academics were an important part of the Discover WORKS experience. Students received instruction in math, English, and language arts, while enrichment opportunities introduced them to subjects that could help shape their futures.
Developed through United Way and the Ballmer Group who is the primary funder in Southeastern Michigan, the program welcomed youth from the Ponds residential community as well as other communities throughout the Downriver area. Through extensive advertising, community outreach, and marketing efforts, more than 100 students were enrolled, with the program ultimately maintaining a comfortable daily attendance of approximately 25 students.
For six weeks, eight hours a day, our students were surrounded by dedicated instructors and staff members who were committed to making learning meaningful—and fun.
Your Own Uniqueness Discover Works site had incredible teachers like Melody Elders who taught rising grades 2nd to 5th; Ronnie McLaughlin who taught rising 6th and 7th graders; Joel Lewis II taught rising 8th graders, and William (Bill) Bridgewater taught rising 9th and 10th graders. Our kids enjoyed them all and it was hard to send the season for all of us.