Reach Opportunity Center

Our Mission

The mission of the Reach Opportunity Center is to enhance the quality of life for the residents of the Summit Lake neighborhood in Akron, Ohio by increasing educational opportunities through the collaboration of community partners.

VISION: The children and families of the Summit Lake neighborhood are empowered to achieve their aspirations through lifelong learning.

Overview
Programs
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About Reach

The Reach Opportunity Center is a welcoming community hub where Summit Lake residents come together for education, support, resources, and connection. It’s a place to learn, grow, and build meaningful relationships.

Reach offers a wide range of programs for all ages — from early childhood education and youth enrichment to workforce development, special interest workshops, support groups, and family events. Whether you’re looking to build skills, access resources, or connect with your neighbors, Reach is here for you.

We invite you to stop by, take a tour, and explore all that the Reach Opportunity Center has to offer.

For current programs, please view the Schedule of Events on this website.

For additional information, contact the Reach Opportunity Center at 330-252-9271.

About the Reach Opportunity Center Collaborative

The Reach Opportunity Center Collaborative (ROC) was established in 2012 and is made up of nonprofit and public-sector leaders who share a deep commitment to the well-being and success of the Summit Lake community. United by the belief that education is key to improving quality of life, the collaborative works together to expand access to learning opportunities for residents of all ages.

The Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority (AMHA) serves as the lead agency. In 2011, AMHA and its partners were awarded a grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to create a facility focused on cradle-to-career education in Summit Lake. Construction began in March 2013, and the Reach Opportunity Center opened in spring 2014.

About the Summit Lake Neighborhood

The Summit Lake neighborhood is located in southwest Akron and surrounds the lake that gives the community its name. Originally founded as Summit Lake Beach Park in 1917, the area was once a vibrant recreational destination for Akron residents. Over time, industrial activity around the canal contributed to environmental challenges, but Summit Lake has remained an important gathering and recreation space.

Today, the neighborhood is part of the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail system and is connected to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, with additional recreational amenities provided by the City of Akron Community Center along the lake.

Like many urban neighborhoods, Summit Lake experienced economic decline beginning in the 1970s. In recent years, however, residents, community leaders, and local partners have come together to revitalize the neighborhood, strengthen infrastructure, and invest in people.

Reach Opportunity Center is part of this broader effort — with a focus on education as a pathway to opportunity. By bringing accessible programs directly into the neighborhood, Reach helps remove barriers related to transportation, cost, and access, empowering residents to improve educational outcomes for themselves and their families.

Reach Opportunity Center Programs

The Reach Opportunity Center offers a wide range of programs designed to support children, youth, adults, and families at every stage of life. From early learning and youth enrichment to adult education and workforce readiness, our programs are rooted in the belief that access to education and resources builds stronger families and communities.

Explore our programs below to find opportunities that meet your needs.

Adult Programs

High School Equivalency (HSE) exam preparation (formerly GED) is offered through Project Learn of Summit County. Instruction focuses on building essential reading, writing, and math skills to help adults achieve educational goals and expand career opportunities.

Computer labs are open to the public during daytime hours and available for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced users. Residents may use the labs for schoolwork, job searches, resume writing, online applications, or personal use. Staff are available to assist and help strengthen digital skills.

These services help participants prepare for the workforce by identifying strengths, building resumes, practicing interview skills, and developing confidence to pursue employment and career advancement.

Mom-ME Time offers supportive group sessions for moms with children under age 5. Participants connect with other mothers, share experiences, and enjoy a break in a welcoming environment. Childcare and a meal are provided, with both morning and evening sessions available.

Youth Programs

In partnership with Community Action Akron Summit, Reach provides early childhood education along with health, nutrition, and parent engagement services designed to support school readiness and family success.

This home visitation program serves families with children from birth to age 5, offering parent education and guidance to help children develop a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

SPARK is a home visitation program for families with children ages 4–5 focused on kindergarten readiness. Families receive books, lessons, and supplies to support early literacy and learning at home.

Designed for children ages 3–5, this program promotes inclusion and integration for children at all developmental levels. Classes are free, held five days per week, and offered in half-day sessions.

SWAG provides out-of-school enrichment, tutoring, mentoring, and academic support for middle and high school students. Programming runs Monday through Thursday, and dinner is provided.

Reach’s STEAM Club engages youth in hands-on learning through Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math. Participants explore creative projects, experiments, and problem-solving activities that build critical thinking skills, confidence, and curiosity in a fun, supportive environment.

Family & Community Programs

Reach hosts fun and engaging family events throughout the year featuring food, crafts, activities, and information from local partner organizations. These events strengthen connections and create welcoming spaces for families to learn and grow together.

The award-winning Summit Metro Parks Pop-Up Nature Center offers interactive displays, a reading corner, hands-on learning labs, and staff-led programs that connect families and youth to nature. Visit the monthly calendar for current offerings.

Need help with something not listed here? Personal Connect provides one-on-one support tailored to your family’s needs. Assistance may include help accessing food, clothing, education resources, or problem-solving support. Schedule time to meet with our Service Coordinator, and let us help connect you to the right resources.