Program for Youngsters May Expand to Westminster Park : Project: School district is considering funding the effort that trains seniors citizens to tutor and encourage first- through third-graders.

A program aimed at getting senior citizens involved in the community and keeping children away from gangs and drugs might expand to Sigler Park, an area known for its gang problems, organizers said.

Representatives of Project SHUE, which stands for Safety, Health, Understanding and Education, said that the Westminster School District is looking into providing funding and bringing the program to Sigler Park. The issue has not been discussed yet by the Westminster school board.

“It has been overwhelmingly successful--even teachers were surprised at how successful it was,” said Charlene Lent, assistant director of community services and recreation for the city. “Kids who had trouble concentrating, who had low self-esteem, really turned around in the classroom.”

Project SHUE will begin its second year in September when children return to school.

When school is in session, about 30 first- through third-graders will gather at the Westminster Senior Center from 2 to 6 p.m. to hear stories, get help with homework and play games, supervised almost entirely by senior citizens.

“It’s a good basic program because of the tutoring and nurturing it provides,” Lent said.

Private and corporate donations now fund the program, which cost about $52,000 to run last year, Lent said.

The goal of Project SHUE is to show senior citizens they have something to offer while helping children who otherwise might go off the track, said Judy Bruland, program director. The program targets children who live in the 15th Street neighborhood near the Civic Center, an area that has had gang and drug problems.

The California Parks and Recreation Society has given the program the “Self-Esteem” award for its success at creating self-esteem in children. The program has also been honored by the National Council on Aging for its intergenerational focus.

In September, fourth-graders who graduated from last year’s program will be given the opportunity to come back as mentors and tutors for this year’s crew. And a new set of senior citizens will be trained to work with the students.

“And we’re always looking for volunteers--young and old,” Bruland said.