Unleashing Potential (UP)

Founded in 1913 as Neighborhood Houses, Unleashing Potential provided critical services for working class populations and addressed the issues of poor education for children. Pastors and church members connected with the United Church of Christ, canvassed St. Louis City to identify the community needs. In 2018, the agency’s name changed to Unleashing Potential (UP), to capture the heart of its work with children. While our name has changed, our mission remains the same-to provide high-quality educational opportunities for underserved youth. Our goal is advance educational equity for more than 1,100 children and families annually from economically disadvantaged communities in St. Louis City, University City, and Ferguson/Florissant. 

UP provides licensed, state and nationally accredited Early Childhood Education for children (six weeks-five years). Occupational and physical therapies are provided on-site for children with special needs.100% of children were kindergarten ready. 82% of children met/exceeded development milestones.

UP’s After School and Summer programs use project-based learning to develop 21st century skills (critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and communication) empowering students ages 6-14 years old to be STEAM-ready. Children demonstrated increased interest, engagement, and proficiency in STEAM and advanced social-emotional skillsets.