Children's literacy center opens in University Square Mall

UNIVERSITY AREA — A space that was once home to the latest offerings from Nike, Reebok and Adidas will soon house a literacy program for children. Move over Foot Locker. Now, it's all about kids.

Situated in almost 6,000 square feet of retail space in University Square Mall, the Literacy Learning Center will have its grand opening Saturday.

The center is designed to encourage children to read, focus on academics and develop social skills, said Wanda DeLaRosa, the executive director of the nonprofit It's All About Kids, which runs the program.

"Our emphasis is literacy and education, and when they come they will be learning at all times," DeLaRosa said.

The center will host etiquette and manners training on Saturdays. During the week, it will hold after-school programs.

Upon arriving in the afternoon, students will work with volunteers to complete their homework, DeLaRosa said. Then, students will head to the computer lab to use educational software, work on arts and crafts, visit the on-site library or participate in drama exercises.

The center also will offer tutoring services and parent-training.

Darhleen Major's children and grandchildren have participated in It's All About Kids' programs.

Major said she noticed a marked difference in her grandchildren's schoolwork and their manners.

"They came home, and their whole demeanor changed," Major said. "They were helping me set the table, and they never did that before."

The organization previously leased space at the Carlisle Lakes Apartments, where Major lives. But when the group's three-year lease with the complex ended, DeLaRosa approached University Square Mall. The nonprofit had previously partnered with the mall on family activities and events.

With the move, It's All About Kids was able to expand its existing programs, add new offerings and house it all in one place.

"When you have your own location, you don't have to worry about setting up and breaking down," DeLaRosa said. "You can have all of your resources in one place, and people know where to find us."

DeLaRosa wanted to stay in the University area because she recognized a need in the community, which has high rates of children struggling with illiteracy. The location is close to the University of South Florida and the University of Tampa, where many of DeLa­Rosa's volunteers attend school.

The after-school program is from 3 to 6 p.m., with extended after hours until 8:30 p.m.

Prices for the individual programs range from $25 for one-on-one tutoring to $60 a week for a technology and reading program. Mall employees will receive a 10 percent discount on enrollment. Reduced enrollment fees are available for children from low-income families.

"If it wasn't for the corporate sponsorships and the individual support and private donations that come in, we would not be able to keep the prices affordable to children and still be able to sponsor some kids that we know will not be able to come to a program like this," DeLaRosa said.

Raena Boston can be reached at hillsnews@sptimes.com.