The Brightside: EPOCH Dream Center is supporting the next generation of students
WICOMICO COUNTY, Md. — A free after-school program is helping kids in western Wicomico County gain resources vital for success, such as mentorship and character development, in the newest edition of The Brightside. The program is sponsored by Choptank Electric Cooperative.
Lanya Milbourne, a teacher at the EPOCH Dream Center, said, “When I joined here in third grade and went all the way up to 12th grade, it was just… this is such an amazing experience. It’s taught me so much in life and allowed me to grow in so many ways, into my adulthood.”
Milbourne said that during her years at the EPOCH Dream Center, the care, academic support, mentorship, and family-style meals made a difference in her life. The program also went above and beyond.
“Just seeing how much they cared to come out of their day and support me, whether that was a basketball game or a concert, they would just show up,” she said.
Executive Director Joann Blockman said the EPOCH Dream Center helps support kids on the west side of Wicomico County as they face the challenges of living in a rural area.
“There’s no public transportation in that area, and that’s the end of the county. So it makes everything harder. When we can connect people with those kinds of resources or bring those resources in, that eases the burden for families and allows us to kind of level the playing field,” Blockman said.
In leveling the field, the program also provides a helping hand at home.
“We sit down like a family, talk about the day, and not only do we eat a nutritious meal, we’re learning the back-and-forth of communication, healthy habits, and trying new foods,” she said.
Milbourne said the nonprofit prepares kids for whatever life throws at them while fostering meaningful relationships.
“I just see them like I was when I was their age. I love that. I guess I’m able to just show that love to them as it was shown to me,” she said.
Raising a family takes a village, and the EPOCH Dream Center is helping shape the next generation.
“We spend 10, 11, 12 years making relationships, earning trust, and developing rapport with each other. I believe that change comes from relationships,” Blockman said.
“Knowing that 10 years from now you can still come into EPOCH, feel so welcomed and loved, and think you’re back at home—that community is important,” Milbourne said.
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