Something Cool Incorporated

We Are McGregor KIDS PLUS! Connecting kids and community.

Something Cool, Inc. has been serving youth in Aitkin County, MN, with KIDS PLUS programming since 1992. In keeping with our mission: To engage youth fully in the life of the community through education, service, recreation and business opportunities, Kids Plus provides 30 hours of direct services to youth each month.

Who are these youth?
While Kids Plus programs focus on youth ages 10-18 at risk of school failure, delinquency, substance use, and community disconnection, all youth are welcome to participate. We serve more than 250 youth each year.

What are the programs?
Homework help for students in grades 7-12 serves 60-70 youth per year- strengthening their skills to complete school and explore the world of work.
Pay It Forward community service program for youth ages 12-16 engages fifteen young people each year teaching work skills through service to elderly/disabled residents and public entities. Each participant completes a minimum of 50 hours of serviced during summer months.
Kids Plus service projects and volunteerism extends throughout the year with more than 100 young people contributing more than 2500 hours of service at community festivals, non-profits events, city parks and rural locations. Our kids GET THINGS DONE!
Responsible behavior and decision-making is embedded in all activities and is supported through use of the All Stars prevention curriculum. 60 youth per year!
Citizenship is promoted to build a positive community. 250 youth per year!
Ageless Friendships intergenerational programming builds relationships between youth and supportive adults over age 55 to encourage skill building, social skills and exploration of interests and roles. 75 youth and adults per year!
Connect for Health builds knowledge of healthy eating and active life styles in 50 youth each year.
Volunteers, Board members and Part-time paid staff make these programs possible.
Each $1 spent on these prevention programs pays off in a return of $8-$14 in savings in future treatment, corrections, and solving of problems in young adults! (Wilder Research, Social Return on Investment)