ROCHELLE — The Hub Project was the recipient of a grant from the Rochelle Area Community Foundation Monday afternoon.
RACF president Cal Jacobs presented a $5,000 check to Jodee Craven, HUB Project grant manager. Also present was RACF executive director Kim Montgomery and four of the HUB project students — Napolean, Ashyley, Richard and Marianna.
“We will be using the funds to fill the funding gap while we wait for a decision from the federal government on their budget,” Craven said. “Specifically the funds will be spent on transportation, student supplies, and teacher and staff pay.”

Currently, there are about 335 students enrolled in the HUB Project, which provides academic support and enrichment opportunities after school. The program also encourages parental engagement with several events throughout the school year for families.
“This grant is huge, we are grateful to RACF for their support of this program,” Craven said. “The impact of the HUB Project is far-reaching, beyond the students in the program. With our students and their families, we believe there are over 1,000 community members that benefit from the HUB Project and its services.”
Pictured behind the group, students in Mrs. Kida’s and Mrs. Smith’s third grade classes used descriptive word clouds to explain what they like about HUB Project. Some of the comments included various subjects such as math, science, and reading, along with activities like sledding. Other students commented they like the teachers and learning.
“I like to go to the gym and play games,” Napolean, pictured, said.
Marianna said she enjoys doing art, and Ashyley said she likes doing homework with friends. Richard also enjoys art during the HUB Project after school.
“The foundation thought this grant for the HUB Project was one of the most important we have given. We are happy to provide this grant. We know this program has an impact on kids in this community,” Jacobs said.