Opening Doors. Unlocking Potential.

EARLY INTERVENTION

Challenge begins working with students in middle school. With the understanding that an early start provides greater opportunity to overcome inequities, Challenge enrolls scholars in a purposeful, multi-year program of academic preparation to ensure high school achievement and college admission. The Challenge Foundation’s philosophy is based on a holistic approach, with services such as enrichment opportunities, mentoring, case management, counseling, tutoring, college preparedness, and service learning. Our whole-student approach ensures that each scholar is supported to further develop individual strengths and to provide opportunities for growth as they pursue their goals.

PRIVATE, COLLEGE PREPARATORY EDUCATION

Every Challenge Scholar attends one of our partner schools, an independent, college preparatory school, from middle school through high school graduation. Each school offers an academically challenging curriculum and an individualized and nurturing educational environment. In addition to an outstanding education, our scholars also have the opportunity to participate in dynamic and enriching extracurricular activities. This all made possible through scholarship funds.

SUMMER PROGRAM

Our summer programs are thoughtfully and deliberately developed to provide engaging and energizing opportunities for scholars every summer. The summer includes programming for academic growth and enrichment activities, as well as community and relationship building opportunities. Our summer program is both a requirement and a highlight for Challenge Scholars in middle school.

MENTORING

Every scholar is paired with a mentor when they begin their journey with Challenge. Mentors play an important role in The Challenge Foundation and in the life of a student. The mentor partners with the student, his or her family, and Challenge to provide on-going support, encouragement, and meaningful experiences with their mentee.

ADVISING AND LONG TERM SUPPORT

Every Challenge Scholar has a Challenge Advisor. These individuals help students and their families navigate through academic and social environments from middle school through college. Whether it’s choosing a high school, preparing for the SAT and ACT, applying to college, submitting a FAFSA or changing their major, Challenge Advisors are by their side every step of the way. Advisors support Challenge Scholars achieve academic and personal success through:

• Academics: Meeting with teachers and school advisors, participating in parent-teacher conferences, helping a student access a tutor, and supporting students in their selection of a college and choice of major.
• Social and emotional support: Helping students overcome obstacles in their personal and academic lives, as well as manage the social challenges of being an adolescent. Challenge supports scholars with professional counseling services as needed.
• Resources: Accessing material resources that foster success, e.g., computers, transportation, school supplies, clothing, athletic equipment, musical instruments, and medical needs such as physicals, glasses, and braces.