Causes: Camps, Human Services, Neighborhood Centers, Sports

Mission: COA Youth & Family Centers helps Milwaukee children, teens, and families reach their greatest potential through a continuum of educational, recreational, and social work programs offered through its urban community centers and rural camp facility. As a multicultural agency, COA values diversity and cooperation, and promotes growth and positive social interaction.

Results: Charity Navigator, a national evaluator of nonprofit organizations, gave COA the highest 4-Star rating and highest rating in the nation for Children and Family Services agencies. "COA Youth & Family Centers outperforms most charities in America in its efforts to operate in the most fiscally responsible way possible. This 'exceptional' designation from Charity Navigator differentieates COA Youth & Family Centers from its peers and demonstrates to the public it is worthy of trust. "-Michael Smith, COO, Charity Navigator

Programs: Since 1906, COA has provided services to Milwaukee youth and families. COA serves more than 25,000 individuals through five core program areas: COA Camps: Fun, exploration, and togetherness offered to kids and families all year long, for a day, a weekend, or an 11-day adventure Early Education/Childcare: Development, literacy, and school readiness for ages birth through 12 Youth Development: Positive, life-enhancing programs and activities for older children and teens Family Support Services:Groundbreaking programs that promote parental involvement and academic success. Adult Education/Community Services: Bettering our neighborhoods through Adult Basic Education/GED programs and community eventsCOA offers programs to youth and families regardless of their ability to pay -- many programs are completely free of charge; where fees exist, they are carefully determined using a sliding scale based on family size, income, and personal situation.