Elaine Clark Center Out-of-School Enrichment Programs

Elaine Clark Center Out-of-School Enrichment is part of the Elaine Clark Center’s continuum of programs, which also includes Inclusive Child Development, Early Intervention, Heart of Hope Academy, and ECC Life. The Out-of-School Enrichment program provides after-school care, summer camps, and respite services for school-age children and young adults in structured, relationship-centered environments.

• Ages: 5–18 years old
• Schedule: Office hours Monday–Friday, 8am–5pm; program hours vary by program and season

The Elaine Clark Center’s mission is to enable children of all abilities to become confident and contributing citizens of the community through an innovative model of education, therapeutic play, and experiential opportunities. The organization has maintained accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) since 1999. The center offers a continuum of care from birth through young adulthood, supporting children and young adults from 6 weeks to 30 years old, with exceptionally small class sizes and respite and out-of-school programs that serve around 15 children. Families across the Metro Atlanta area, including Brookhaven, Marietta, Duluth, Jonesboro, and Lawrenceville, use the Elaine Clark Center and take part in community events such as Hustle for Hope and the Day of Service at Elaine Clark.

The Elaine Clark Center has a long history that began in the mid-1960s and includes its official incorporation in 1969, a merger with Heart of Hope Academy in 2009, and a major renovation in 2018 that added 9,000 square feet of new space. Leadership includes Executive Director Beth Schmehling Cook, Social Services Coordinator Joi Rachmann, and Development and Events Coordinator Kelly Carter, with a Board of Directors led by President Jennifer Sheppard Boston. The Frank Clark Memorial Scholarship Fund supports access to the center’s programs, and on-campus services include speech, occupational, and physical therapy, with families choosing their own therapists for sessions held during program hours.

Parents describe the Elaine Clark Center as a support to their families through summer camps, early school, after-school programs, and ECC Life, and they report making lifelong friendships and connections with other parents. Families also note being introduced to the scholarship program and receiving resources to apply for Katie Beckett Medicaid.

Last updated July 31, 2026.