Breaking the Cycle of Generational Poverty
Generational poverty is a complex issue that affects many urban communities. At Elevate New England, we believe that mentorship is the key to breaking this cycle. By building long-term, life-changing relationships with New England’s urban youth, equipping them to thrive and contribute to their communities. We do this by connecting first in the classroom through character education and life skills programs, empowering young people to overcome obstacles, build resilience, and create a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
About Elevate New England
Elevate New England was formed in 2016 to address the challenges facing at-risk youth in public schools, aiming to break the cycle of generational poverty. We provide accredited classes for middle and high school students, focusing on leadership skills, social-emotional learning, and character development. In the classroom, teacher-mentors connect with students and build relationships through engaging, personable teaching methods. This relationship allows teacher mentors to guide students in taking advantage of existing opportunities and building new ones together. Our opportunities cover a wide range such as job interview preparation, volunteer service, sports, and college guidance in school and after school. Over the past 8 years, we have grown to serve over 1700 youth per year in two cities – Lowell and Lawrence, MA. We are the only non-profit organization teaching accredited classes in public schools.
Our Approach to Helping Urban Youth Needing Guidance
At Elevate New England, we empower youth to thrive through mentorship. Through caring mentorship and programming, we build resilience and character, equipping students with the skills they need for success in school, career, and life.
Building Resilience and Independence
Our programs are designed to help young people build resilience and independence. Through our unique, relationship-based approach, we empower students to overcome obstacles, develop essential life skills, and achieve their goals.
Fostering Character and Success
We believe that character education is essential for success in school, career, and life. Our programs focus on fostering character and success, providing students with the skills and support they need to thrive.
Caring Relationships with Mentors
We believe in the power of caring relationships to help young people succeed. Our Teacher-Mentors, who come from the communities they serve, act as role models and mentors, providing vital support and guidance. Available 24/7, they build lasting relationships with students, creating a “pipeline of influence” from 3rd through 12th grade and beyond.
Join us in supporting the future!
Donate today and be a part of their journey towards a brighter future!
Accredited Classes in Leadership and Social-Emotional Learning
Our accredited classes are taught in public schools and focus on leadership skills and social-emotional learning. These year-long courses are fully aligned with Common Core State Standards and Social and Emotional Learning (CASEL) Competencies. Through experiential learning, group activities, and discussions, students collaborate to build character and life skills. Click here for an in-depth description of the curriculum
After-School Mentoring and Activities
After school, Elevate New England offers mentoring and a wide array of activities to further support our students’ growth and development. From job interview preparation to volunteer service, from sports to college guidance, we provide students with the resources they need to explore their interests and reach their full potential.
Exposing Students to Career and College Opportunities
At Elevate New England, we are committed to exposing our students to a wide range of career and college opportunities. From college visits to assistance with college applications, we provide students with the support and guidance they need to pursue their dreams and achieve their goals.
Cross-Age Mentoring Opportunities
Through our Cross-Age Mentoring program, high school students have the opportunity to become leaders and role models for elementary school students. Each week, our high school students travel to elementary schools to teach back to younger students the same character qualities and life skills they have learned, helping to create a positive and supportive learning environment for all.
The Impact of Our Program
The impact of Elevate New England can be seen in the success of our students. With a 98% graduation rate for students in our program for 3 semesters or more, compared to 78% for the high schools we are in, 90% for all of Massachusetts, and 53% for the nation’s 50 largest urban school districts, our program is making a real difference in the lives of young people.
How Your Gift Helps Support our programs
You can support Elevate New England by making a donation today. Your donation will help us provide opportunities for underprivileged youth, empowering them to thrive and make a difference in their communities.
Join us in tranforming young lives – donate today and be a part of their journey towards a brighter future!
Gina’s Journey: From Defiance to Transformation
Gina’s life was marked by defiance and aggression, shaped by challenging circumstances at home. Her disruptive behavior kept everyone at a distance.
This all changed with Elevate New England’s Teach Back program. Initially terrified and resistant, Gina avoided participating, but with persistent encouragement from Teacher-Mentors Adam and Kendra, she began to embrace the challenge. When she finally participated in the Teach Back session, seeing the eager faces of the third graders looking up to her softened her defiant exterior. Gina transformed from a reluctant participant into “Miss Gina,” a beloved mentor and role model. Elevate New England provided Gina with the guidance, support, and life skills she needed to overcome her challenges and thrive.
Gina’s Journey: From Defiance to Transformation
Gina’s life was marked by defiance and aggression, shaped by challenging circumstances at home. Her disruptive behavior kept everyone at a distance.
This all changed with Elevate New England’s Teach Back program. Initially terrified and resistant, Gina avoided participating, but with persistent encouragement from Teacher-Mentors Adam and Kendra, she began to embrace the challenge. When she finally participated in the Teach Back session, seeing the eager faces of the third graders looking up to her softened her defiant exterior. Gina transformed from a reluctant participant into “Miss Gina,” a beloved mentor and role model. Elevate New England provided Gina with the guidance, support, and life skills she needed to overcome her challenges and thrive.
Gerard’s Journey: From Despair to Hope
Gerard faced deep isolation and despair, a struggle shared by 45% of high school students today according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Like many of his peers, he battled hopelessness and depression, overwhelmed by a sense of meaninglessness that clouded his days. When schools reopened after COVID-19, Gerard, like others, didn’t return. His grades dropped dramatically from straight A’s to F’s, and he withdrew from classes and social interactions.
Everything changed when Kevin, an Elevate New England (ENE) Teacher-Mentor, persistently reached out to him, even bringing pastries to coax him out of his isolation.
Kevin’s steady support paid off. Gerard, once withdrawn and failing, gradually opened up and reengaged with school. Now, he confidently shares his story, excels in Calculus, and is preparing for college in computer programming.
Gerard’s transformation highlights the power of ENE’s life-changing relationships. Your donations make these stories possible. Please consider donating to support more students like Gerard. Thank you for your generosity.
Gerard’s Journey: From Despair to Hope
Gerard faced deep isolation and despair, a struggle shared by 45% of high school students today according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Like many of his peers, he battled hopelessness and depression, overwhelmed by a sense of meaninglessness that clouded his days. When schools reopened after COVID-19, Gerard, like others, didn’t return. His grades dropped dramatically from straight A’s to F’s, and he withdrew from classes and social interactions.
Everything changed when Kevin, an Elevate New England (ENE) Teacher-Mentor, persistently reached out to him, even bringing pastries to coax him out of his isolation.
Kevin’s steady support paid off. Gerard, once withdrawn and failing, gradually opened up and reengaged with school. Now, he confidently shares his story, excels in Calculus, and is preparing for college in computer programming.
Gerard’s transformation highlights the power of ENE’s life-changing relationships. Your donations make these stories possible. Please consider donating to support more students like Gerard. Thank you for your generosity.