Through an intervention proven to increase high school graduation rates from 68% to 92%, set 225 middle school students on the path to future success with Focusing Philanthropy and Spark

As always, Focusing Philanthropy covers all overhead costs. 100% of every donation will go to the 2018 “High School Success” campaign.


THE NEED

Over 20% of all American youth–and over 50% of youth in many disadvantaged communities–drop out of high school. One in four African American and nearly one in five Latino students attend high schools where graduating is not the norm.

Evidence shows that, for most students at risk, the problem begins in middle school.  This is when as many as 60-70% of students become chronically disengaged–showing signs of diminishing school performance, attendance, and classroom behavior–and enter high school unprepared academically, socially, and emotionally.


THE OPPORTUNITY

Effective engagement during middle school years can have powerful, positive consequences on retention and graduation rates in high school.


THE GOAL

Focusing Philanthropy has partnered with Spark to raise $300,000 to set 225 middle school students on the path to successful completion of high school and beyond.

Spark unites diverse communities to create career-exploration and self-discovery opportunities that reengage underserved seventh and eighth graders. To date, 92% of Spark Students have graduated high school or are on track to graduate on time, compared to an average of 68% of their peers. In 2017-18, Spark will serve 3,000+ students in the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Philadelphia through partnerships with 25 high-need schools and 150+ companies.

The 2018 “High School Success” campaign will expand Spark’s proven program to five additional schools in the 2018-19 school year, utilizing a three-pronged approach:

  • Exploration (Spark Lab) – Students visit 4-6 companies and participate in volunteer-led workshops.
  • Immersion (Spark Mentorship) – Students work 1:1 with mentors in the workplace to develop and execute a project of their own design.
  • Transition (High School Pathways) – Spark staff educate eighth graders about high school selection and ensure successful transition into ninth grade.

THE GIVING MATCH

From April 1 – September 30, 2018, Focusing Philanthropy will add $1 for every $2 contributed by Spark donors, for up to $100,000 in matching campaign support.

To qualify for the match, donations must be directed to Focusing Philanthropy and a minimum of $1,000. Donations are fully tax deductible and 100% of funds contributed will go to the 2018 “High School Success” campaign. All Focusing Philanthropy costs are covered by its founders.