Contributed by Big Brothers Big Sisters
KALAMAZOO (Mich.)-KRESA/Youth Opportunities Unlimited and Big Brothers Big Sisters are partnering with the Kalamazoo Community Foundation and others in Education Reconnection to positively impact the high school graduation rate of Kalamazoo area youth and expose them to educational opportunities beyond high school. The pilot project has identified 25 youth between the ages of 16 and 19 who have dropped-out of school or are at risk to drop-out who will be connected to multiple education and support services that will assist each youth to develop and follow a pathway for school success and gainful employment.
Education Reconnection is in need of men and women to establish a mentoring relationship with the targeted youth to provide emotional support and guidance as they navigate their new pathway. Mentor/Navigators should be at least 21 years old, have transportation and the willingness to connect with a student a few times per month in-person, by phone, and/or electronically. Mentor/Navigators will help students learn and practice basic life skills such as time management, workplace values and behaviors, employment searches and provide emotional support and guidance to reach their educational goals. Professional training and support will be provided.
Your support of Education Reconnection and the pilot students is critical as in the U.S. 6,000 students drop-out of high school each day; more than a quarter of high school freshman fail to graduate on time; high school drop-outs commit about 75% of the crimes in the U.S.; and high school drop-outs earn more than a million dollars less over a lifetime than a college graduate.
Education Reconnection is your opportunity to jump- start a teenager’s path to school success, gainful employment and a fulfilling and productive life. To get involved, call Norma Thornton at Big Brothers Big Sisters, 269-382-6800 or e-mail her at normathornton@bbbsmi.org.
