February 26, 2025 Opening Doors to Opportunity Our Student Observation and Selection Process Our commitment to long-term mentorship begins with a thoughtful and intentional selection process. Over the past month, our team, including Executive Director Tre Maxie and Program Director Lourdes Carrillo, have visited elementary schools across the city, meeting with principals, counselors, and teachers to identify children who could benefit most from our program. During our visits to Aldine ISD’s Bill Worsham, Jerry Keeble, and Marcella Elementary Schools, we had meaningful conversations with school staff and spent time observing students in their classroom environments. These visits are a crucial step in ensuring we connect with children who are facing systemic obstacles and could benefit from a dedicated, professional mentor by their side for the next 12+ years. Our visit to Marcella Elementary was especially timely as it coincided with National School Counseling Week. We had the privilege of speaking with Mrs. Hampton, the school’s dedicated counselor, who plays a vital role in guiding and supporting students through life’s challenges. Her insights and deep understanding of her students reaffirm the importance of strong school partnerships in our work. By taking the time to truly understand each child’s experiences, strengths, and needs, we ensure that we are reaching those who need our support the most. Our mission is to break cycles of generational poverty, and that starts with identifying and investing in youth who may not otherwise have access to long-term, consistent mentorship. We are incredibly grateful to the educators, counselors, and administrators who have welcomed us into their schools and shared their invaluable perspectives. Their dedication to their students makes this work possible, and we are excited to begin building relationships with a new group of children and families.