You know what’s cool about Goodman programming?

It’s designed to follow kids and families through all the stages of life.

When you make a gift to Goodman, you’re helping us set kids up for success. Who doesn’t want that?

Take Malyki for example. He's one of the middle schoolers you read about in the cover story for our November/December issue of Eastside News. But you’ve probably already seen him before.

Malyki hangs from a tree wearing a Goodman shirt, age 3.

Malyki, age 3

Malyki’s been coming to Goodman since he was 3 years old. And he’ll be the first to tell you those early years weren’t always easy. “When I was younger I was out of control,” he said. “I threw chairs, yelled and screamed. But my teachers at Goodman helped me be better. Now I don’t get into trouble at all.

Malyki smiles while wearing aviator sunglasses.

Malyki, age 9

Back in 2018, when Malyki was in 4th grade, we shared another story, this one about Coach Malyki. He had an opportunity to share his 9-year-old wisdom with some kindergarteners who were having a rough time – lots of yelling and screaming, throwing things. Sounds familiar, right? Malyki joined that class once a week to talk to the kids, help them learn how important it is to clean up and be a contributing part of their school family.

Malyki crosses his arms while modeling a scarf he knitted.

Malyki, age 12

And then there was 2021, the second summer of the pandemic. We told you about Malyki’s Knit Shop. You see, Malyki has been knitting since he was 9. He learned from Goodman teacher Ms. Nicole, and by the time he got to middle school, he was starting to get really good. He started a knitting club at Goodman and taught his friends to knit. Then, he opened his shop, taking orders for hats and scarves and even knit bags.

An image with a smiling Malyki, along with a quote he said: "Just being here makes you feel good. Goodman is a cool community. Everyone wants to see you succeed."

Meeting Malyki, you can tell he’s going to do something great for his community – he told us he wants to “be a good citizen” by sharing his gifts. He credits Goodman and its staff for teaching him why that’s so important.

Don’t you wish that for every kid?

Your gift will ensure that more kids get the same kind of opportunities Malyki has had for nearly 10 years – and will continue to have through high school and beyond.

Make a gift today and help us set even more kids – and as a result, our community – up for success.