The middle school years are the time in a child’s life which most experts agree is a developmental crossroads—a “fork in the road,” when a young individual is presented with two distinct directions that will ultimately shape his or her future. It’s a time of exploration, introduction of independent thinking and decision-making. Because of dramatic shifts in the family unit, primarily characterized by either single-parent families or dual-working parents, children at this age are often left to fend for themselves during the crucial hours between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Without positive influences and the guidance of caring adult role models, children at this age are more likely to wander down the more negative of the two “life roads.” Unfortunately, this is an area that has been largely neglected by the public sector in terms of funding, research and provision of engaging options that will influence a youth to choose a healthier and more productive path. Prepared 4 Life was founded to provide a solution.