The Importance of Reading
Reading is an everyday activity that occurs countless times throughout the day. Whether it’s a book, a street sign, or a map, reading is deeply ingrained in our society. Many adults check their cell phones multiple times a day, and students often use iPads or Chromebooks provided by schools, which deliver large amounts of information. Much of this information comes in the form of written messages that require reading ... Continue Reading »
One-to-One Tutoring
At the Bob Burdette Center, tutoring is one of the core services we are proud to provide. In the past, we offered a three-to-one tutoring model, where one tutor worked with three students at a time. This small-group approach allowed students to receive targeted academic support and better understand challenging concepts.
However, even in a small group, it can be difficult to fully meet the unique learning needs of each ... Continue Reading »
Students Enjoy “Matilda” Movie Night as Reward for Positive Behavior Matilda Movie Night
On Thursday, September 25, students from the Bob Burdette Center enjoyed a special movie night at the LaBelle Theater in South Charleston to watch Matilda. The event recognized students who have shown positive behavior and strong participation at the Center—our first reward event of the year, with more to come.
Families and staff shared a true movie-night experience complete with pizza and popcorn, laughter, and a few lessons in courage ... Continue Reading »
Family Engagement Night Celebrates Healthy Meals and Screen-Free Togetherness
On September 23, the Bob Burdette Center hosted Family Engagement Night at Emmanuel Baptist Church—an evening focused on connection, healthy living, and quality family time without screens. More than 100 nutritious meals were shared as families gathered to eat, laugh, and reconnect in person.
Dinner featured a wholesome menu prepared by our on-site chef: beef stew, quinoa salad, and garlic green beans—a balanced mix of protein, grains, and vegetables. Each ... Continue Reading »
Mark Cable Concert
Emmanuel Baptist Church to host free concert
On September 27th at 6:30pm, Emmanuel Baptist Church will host a free concert featuring Mark Cable in the Great Night Out. Emmanuel Baptist Church is the parent of the Bob Burdette Center and is the location of our main afterschool care site. Cable is a Christian singer/songwriter and comedian who incorporates a mixture of music and humor ... Continue Reading »Family Engagement Night
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You’re Invited!
The Bob Burdette Center is excited to announce another Family Engagement Night! Join us at Emmanuel Baptist Church on Tuesday, September 23rd at 6:00pm for an evening of connection, fun, and board games. Each person who RSVPs to attend will receive a free, healthy meal prepared by our on-site chef. In addition, ... Continue Reading »New School Year
The Bob Burdette Center Kicks off the 2025-2026 Program Year
The Bob Burdette Center has officially begun its 2025-2026 afterschool programming year, continuing its work serving the children and families of the West Side of Charleston. This program provides students with academic support, learning opportunities, and a safe space following the school day. Each year the Bob Burdette Center partners with local schools, families, and ... Continue Reading »Bob Burdette saves 250 pounds of food from rotting in a landfill…
At the Bob Burdette Center, we believe in building a healthier future—not just for the environment, but for our children and our community. That’s why, through our Community Garden project, made possible by a grant from the Pallottine Foundation of Huntington, we’ve embraced composting as a way to reduce waste, enrich the soil, and teach valuable life lessons.
To date, our dedicated personnel have contributed over 250 pounds ... Continue Reading »