Today we’d like to introduce you to John Childs.
Hi John, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
In 2013, I was in what would be my last year of teaching in Atlanta Public Schools. I loved teaching but grew apart from the profession. I decided to leave and start an organization that could utilize my love for the teaching as well as my love for business. I knew whatever I decided would require funding so I decided on a nonprofit. The disciplines of STEM and 21st Century Learning skills were on the rise and I was a science teacher so they were natural match for me. With those ingredients, I started Mental Fitness 21st Century Learning Inc. I decided to deliver my programming through after-school and summer academy.
The first year of the organization took place in the basement of Fort Street United Methodist Church on Boulevard right down the street from Hope Hill ES the school I taught 5th grade in. I used every dime I had to sustain the program for that year. Fortunately enough, I began to get paying customers towards the end and began a relationship with Inman Middle School now David T. Howard Middle in the Old Fourth Ward.
Shortly after I was introduced to Fairburn City Councilman James Whitmore who wanted my program in the City of Fairburn. He fought hard in council to get us approved as the STEM program for the city and won. We resided in the Fairburn Youth Center from 2015 to 2022 and formed great relationships in the city with Parks and Recreation. It was the absolute best thing that has happened to us an organization.
With good fortune and timing, we were able to purchase a building of our own just down the road in Union City in June of 2022 but remain in a great relationship with the folks in Fairburn. Here, we provide STEM and STEAM academic enrichment to families using drones, LEGO, robots, e-sports, 3-D printing and science experimentation in a family atmosphere. We are supported by organizations like Delta Community Credit Union, Speedway Charities, Crawford Investment Counsel, Fulton County CSP and others. With their partnership, we provide a variety of opportunities for students and are able to subsidize our costs to keep our service affordable and in some cases free of charge.
It has been the honor of my life so far to serve so many children and families.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
In any new nonprofit and in most existing ones, funding will always be the issue of the day. We have been fortunate to be grant worthy in the eyes of funders to enable us to survive and thrive even through the pandemic. this was super important during that time because we had to shut our operation down for many months and then switch to a totally virtual provider to stay in contact with our customer base.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
We have become known for providing true academic enrichment in an after-school and summer camp environment. A good number of our competitors promise these things but wind up offering little more than babysitting services. We pride ourselves on providing a fun rich environment but also prioritizing learning. We know it works from our parent feedback.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
My favorite business book is Up with the Company by Robert Townsend. He has given me several leadership ideas and directions that have proven to be effective over the years. I was a TV-watching child and I still am that way as an adult. My choices revolve around shows that showcase entrepreneurship and the challenges and successes that come along with it.
Pricing:
- After School – $90/week
- Summer STEAM Camp – $150/week
Contact Info:
- Website: www.mentalfitnessatl.org
- Instagram: @mentalfitnessatl
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mentalfitnessatl
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-childs-mental-fitness
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcuMvB3RCLR45Xq-yYjVHww
