HISTORY

Communities In Transformation is a program long in the making. C.I.T. is currently working toward implementing four main components into each of its programs:
• Academics: Many students involved in C.I.T.'s after-school programs have seen better grades, improved their study skills, and learned to practice better social skills. Once academic improvement has been achieved, students can see the value in success at school.
• Character Development: Students become involved in a variety of activities and begin to see that hard work and character qualities improve their lives. Students will learn character qualities in a variety of fun and challenging ways through C.I.T.'s various programs.
• Self-Development: C.I.T. hopes to help children realize and pursue their strengths, talents and interests. For example, if a student is gifted in music, C.I.T. volunteers will work to find someone to provide music lessons. When children understand and develop their gifts, they will be motivated to work hard and succeed in different areas of life.
• Service: Students involved in the C.I.T. programs can also learn to give back. A kindergartener can learn to serve by helping straighten up after an art project. A high schooler can be a role model to the younger children by helping with homework or teaching lessons. From the youngest to the oldest, students involved in C.I.T.'s programs will be served with quality care, and can then turn around and serve others.

Founder — Toni Branyon:
Toni Branyon, founder of C.I.T., spent 26 years surrounded by children as an elementary school teacher. She has earned a Master's Degree in elementary education from Auburn University and has dedicated much of her life to training children. Toni's commitment to helping children reach their full potential led her to working with community after-school programs. In 2002, Toni became the director of a community center, which provided numerous programs to children in the inner city. Through Toni's love and determination for the community members, the program and children flourished.

Toni's work also led her to volunteering at her childhood camp. While there, she reconnected with Trudy Cathy White, which eventually led her to the Lifeshape Foundation. Through her partnership with Lifeshape, Toni's vision for C.I.T. is being realized everyday as children learn, grow and succeed.

LifeShape:
John & Trudy Cathy White began Lifeshape, Inc., a family foundation, to promote leadership in the emerging generation. For information on Lifeshape's other programs, check out www.lifeshape.org.