BrightKids provides free after-school programs, mentorship, and resources to children in underserved communities — giving them the tools to dream bigger and go further.
Four core programs designed to meet children where they are — and take them further than they ever imagined.
One-on-one and group tutoring in math, reading, and science — completely free for enrolled students, five days a week.
Hands-on courses in Scratch, Python, and web development. Kids build real projects and leave with a digital portfolio.
Visual arts, music, drama, and creative writing programs that build confidence, communication, and emotional intelligence.
SAT prep, college application support, scholarship guidance, and career mentorship from industry professionals.
Without after-school support, children in underserved communities fall behind grade level — and rarely catch up without intervention.
Lack of mentorship, technology access, and college guidance prevents children from reaching their full potential.
The gap between high-income and low-income students has grown 40% in the last two decades. BrightKids is helping close it.
Free, high-quality after-school programs that give every child — regardless of zip code — the support, skills, and belief to succeed.
BrightKids was founded in 2012 by a group of teachers, parents, and community leaders who believed that every child — regardless of background — deserves an equal shot at success.
We run free after-school centers in 24 cities, staffed by trained educators and supported by 580+ volunteer mentors from across the country.
To close the opportunity gap for children in underserved communities through free, high-quality after-school education and mentorship programs.
We run free after-school tutoring, STEM classes, arts programs, and college readiness workshops for kids ages 6–18 across 24 U.S. cities.
One in three children in America lacks access to quality after-school programs. Without support, they fall behind — and the gap never closes.
Three powerful ways to make a difference — choose what works for you.
$25 provides one month of after-school tutoring for a child in need. Every dollar goes directly to our programs.
Donate NowShare your skills as a mentor, tutor, or program assistant. We'll match you with a child who needs exactly what you offer.
Become a MentorCompanies, schools, and organizations can sponsor programs, donate supplies, or provide internship opportunities for our graduates.
Start a PartnershipSince 2012, BrightKids has served over 12,000 children across 24 cities. Here's what that looks like in numbers.
Marcus joined BrightKids at age 11, two years behind in math. Today, at 17, he's been accepted to three engineering programs and mentors younger kids on weekends.
Sofia barely spoke in class. After two years in our arts program, she performed on stage in front of 400 people — and earned a creative writing scholarship.
Darius learned his first line of code at a BrightKids center at age 13. Four years later, he's headed to Georgia Tech on a full merit scholarship.
From parents to volunteers to partners — hear from the people who've seen BrightKids change lives.
"BrightKids didn't just help my daughter with homework — it gave her confidence she's never had before. She actually wants to go to school now."
"I volunteer as a coding mentor every Saturday. Watching these kids build their first app is one of the most rewarding things I've ever done."
"Our company has partnered with BrightKids for 3 years. The kids we've mentored are now applying to our internship program. The pipeline is real."
Your donation goes directly to free tutoring, technology, arts, and college readiness programs for kids who need it most.