The mission of Communities In Schools is to connect community resources with schools to help young people successfully learn; to stay in school, and prepare for life.

For well over a decade in North Carolina and for 25 years across the nation, CIS has provided successful stay in school solutions at public school sites. By showing communities how to coordinate their public, private and non-profit resources, kids can get the help they need, where they need it.

The core of CIS states that every child needs and deserves:

• A one-on-one relationship with a caring adult
• A safe place to learn and grow
• A marketable skill to use upon graduation
• A healthy start and a healthy future
• A chance to give back to peers and their community

During the year 2004-05 school year, Alliance for Children & Youth operated four CIS sites: York Chester Middle School, Bessemer City Middle School, Southwest Middle School and Grier Middle School.

Activities held at CIS sites:

• School Supply Drive
• Homework Clubs
• Career Fairs
• Community Service
• Mentoring
• Lunch and Reading Buddies

Each CIS program surrounds young people with a community of health and mental health care providers, career counselors, tutors, mentors, lunch buddies, classroom and homework club volunteers caring adults who can help them prepare for life.