Our Mission

Open Doors Academy works to protect, inspire, nurture and challenge adolescents to reach their full potential through the provision of meaningful out-of-school enrichment programming in a safe and structured environment.

Our Vision

Open Doors Academy seeks to provide best-in-class services to its students, alumni, and families. Focusing on growing its footprint throughout Northeast Ohio, while advancing its national reputation as a leader in out-of-school education, ODA serves as a foundation of education, investing in the life-long learning of its’ staff, students, and families.

Who We Are

Open Doors Academy is a nonprofit, developmental enrichment program and leadership academy for adolescents. The program, which was established in 2002 as an afterschool drop-in program for youth living in high-risk environments at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Cleveland Heights, now serves over 330 youth annually.

Member youth participate in project based learning experiences such as core enrichment programs and academic tutoring built around their developmental needs, full-day summer camps and service learning trips. At the core of the program is building a safe haven filled with support, creating a sense of community, and fostering the kids’ confidence. ODA builds this environment by engaging parents, teachers and other community partners.

Our Values

Shared Responsibility – Together, Open Doors Academy, the school, community, and parents share the responsibility for raising each youth in a safe and supportive environment that challenges them to reach their full potential.

Life Long Learning – Open Doors Academy believes that learning is not confined to childhood or the classroom alone, but takes place throughout life and in a wide range of situations.

Civility – Open Doors Academy seeks to create an environment that supports and encourages care, respect, and empathy while acknowledging the culture and humanity of others.

Perseverance – Open Doors Academy challenges all youth to defy the status quo in breaking through the glass ceiling to reach their dreams.

Culture of Excellence – Open Doors Academy staff, students, and parents reflect the desire to function at the highest levels possible in academics, relationships, character, and citizenship.