Our Programs
A vibrant network of support at a critical juncture.
We understand the power of walking alongside youth during some of the most formative years of their lives — weaving together a network of support to build a foundation for success.
A five-year journey, by design.
One-to-One Mentorship
One-to-one mentorship begins in the spring of seventh grade/fall of eighth grade, and formally lasts five years. Our model is based on evidence-based research: mentoring can work if the relationship lasts long enough, and contact is frequent enough for a connection to develop. This evolution occurs over time within a developmental assets framework: a consistent and loving adult will express care, challenge growth, provide support, share power, and expand possibilities.
Educational & Cultural Match Events
Monthly match programs are designed to introduce new life experiences, strengthen mentor-mentee bonds, cultivate interests, and spark conversation about the future. They provide a broad brushstroke of cultural, recreational and educational exposure — inviting students to make discoveries on their own. This kind of access and awareness can impact a young woman's aspirations for the future.
Post-Secondary Advising
Post-secondary advising helps our upperclassmen to map out a realistic path forward. Our college access specialists and mentors work in tandem to help create a post-secondary plan, make the process manageable, and keep them on track. Together, they develop a list of colleges and/or workforce education programs with action items. In this way, our students are more likely to understand what it takes to attain the goals they set for themselves.
College & Career-Readiness Summer Programs
College and career readiness summer programs encourage students to explore fields of interest, often while spending time on college campuses. With this, we encourage 8th–12th grade students to attend a residential and/or day program on a college campus. Many students have not left home before, but even a week away removes some of the unknowns. We promote a summer jobs program within Baltimore City as well.
Beyond the five years.
Our support doesn't end at graduation. Graduate supports — one-to-one advising, care packages, and tuition assistance — are the necessary next step to ensure each plan comes to fruition as our 18–21 year olds work to adapt, reach their goals, increase confidence, and navigate challenges. These efforts allow us to extend our support beyond the formal match period, pivot when student plans change, and collect longer-term data — all while giving each young woman the space she needs to move into this next stage of independence.
