This project will provide 10+ years of academic and enrichment support for 50 low-income youth--2nd grade through high school graduation. Students will receive literacy and math support, cultural enrichment opportunities, college and career preparation activities, and college scholarships. The ultimate goal is to empower and motivate these youth to graduate high school, then continue to and through college. 15 youth are waiting to be sponsored before this cohort of 50 can begin!
There are over 15,000 children living in poverty in Boulder County, creating a huge opportunity gap that too often perpetuates the cycle of poverty. The gap threatens development of core academic, social, emotional, and life skills. These youth are more likely to fall behind in school, resort to unhealthy behaviors, and drop out of school. The program creates a culture of college and career success for the youth, also impacting family members, peers, and schools in which the program operates.
Each cohort employs one full-time Program Director and utilizes highly qualified tutors, mentors, and volunteers that support the Dreamers in reaching their academic and career goals. Services include literacy & STEM support, tutoring & mentoring, parent outreach & counseling, summer programming, college & career preparation workshops, health & wellness programs, service learning opportunities, and a tuition-assistance scholarship for college or vocational school upon high school graduation.
The program increases graduation rates and college attendance rates for low-income youth, helping them break the cycle of poverty. These Dreamers graduate at a rate of at least 90%, compared to between 65% and 75% of their low-income peers, and at least 85% of Dreamers continue on to post-secondary education compared to 18% of their peers. The program provides opportunities for Dreamers to capitalize on their talents and aspirations, helping them achieve success in school and life.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).
