Our Journey

School Mentoring Program (funded from DCYF) School Mentoring Program The School Mentoring Program supports at-risk students by providing academic mentoring, behavioral support, and after-school enrichment. In 2024, the program served 36 students, fostering improvements in academic achievement, attendance, and personal development. Through structured after-school activities, mentorship sessions, and a targeted Gang Intervention component, the program helped guide youth away from high-risk behaviors and toward healthier futures. Key services included providing regular mentoring, offering over 350 meals and spending nearly $20K on supplies and activities to meet both basic needs and provide enrichment opportunities, while supporting their emotional and academic growth. Program data, including participation rates and student outcomes, are tracked through DCYF monthly reporting. Overall, students demonstrated notable gains in grades, school attendance, and behavioral outcomes, reflecting the program's strong impact on student success and resilience.

School Intervention Program (funded from CHA) O.U.R. Journey provides intervention services for highly at-risk youth, focusing on school engagement, mentorship, and community reentry support. The program serves youth involved with the juvenile justice system, at risk of gang affiliation, and struggling with school engagement. Through partnerships with schools, juvenile justice representatives, and community organizations, O.U.R. Journey offers trauma-informed mentorship, peer-to-peer support, and re-engagement services, including educational re-enrollment, workforce development opportunities, and positive youth activities. In 2024-2025, O.U.R. Journey supported over 60 youth, helping students stay in or return to school, secure employment support, and reconnect with positive community outlets. The program expanded services by opening a dedicated youth center, training staff in Credible Messenger and Peer Counseling models, and strengthening partnerships with local employment and educational programs. O.U.R. Journey prioritizes racial justice by creating equitable access to opportunities for Black and Brown youth disproportionately impacted by systemic barriers.