schools
After-school program teaches children to love and respect themselves
By Debra Alfarone, LeAnne Gendreau at KGNS — Sitewide
· June 25, 2026
· 2 min read
WASHINGTON (Aging Untold) — An after-school program in Washington is using affirmations, art and storytelling to help children build confidence and a strong sense of self. The program is run by a nonprofit called FAN! Josephine Mazych said it stands for Fihankra Akoma Ntoaso, which means “safe pl...
Key takeaway Josephine Mazych said it stands for Fihankra Akoma Ntoaso, which means “safe places, linked hearts.
Why this matters in Laredo News
In Laredo , where community support is vital for the well-being of its young residents, programs like FAN! serve as a model for fostering confidence and self-love in children. The use of affirmations, art, and storytelling to build a strong sense of self is an approach that could be valuable in local after-school programs. Given the importance of stability and mentoring in a child's life, it's worth considering how similar initiatives could be implemented in Webb County schools. By providing a safe and nurturing environment, such programs can help children develop a positive self-image, which is crucial for overcoming challenges and achieving their full potential. As Laredo continues to prioritize the education and development of its youth, it's essential to explore innovative methods like those used by FAN! to promote self-esteem and empowerment among local students.
About this story
Original reporting by KGNS — Sitewide . Laredo News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KGNS — Sitewide . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: schools ·
Published: June 25, 2026 ·
Source: KGNS — Sitewide ·
Reading time: 2 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? WASHINGTON (Aging Untold) — An after-school program in Washington is using affirmations, art and storytelling to help children build confidence and a strong sense of self. The program is run by a nonprofit called FAN! Josephine Mazych said it stands for Fihankra Akoma Ntoaso, which means “safe pl...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 25, 2026 by KGNS — Sitewide and curated for Laredo News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Debra Alfarone, LeAnne Gendreau at KGNS — Sitewide. To learn more about how Laredo News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more schools coverage from Laredo News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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