Excellence For Detroit Incorporated

Excellence for Detroit is a small, infant nonprofit focused on preparing Detroit high schoolers to gain admission to college, pay for it, and succeed once on campus. In order to enhance the participants' ability to get in to and graduate from an institution of higher learning, this org has a detailed, carefully designed program. It focuses on introducing the students to the basic skills needed to engage with college-level academic work -- critical thinking, essay writing, primary source utilization, study skills, etc. The program intersperses how-to basics and tips on the application process and financing options in each weekend class during this first part. The second half of the curriculum uses the team-taught, individually oriented approach of Part I and applies it to increase students' ability to perform on the critical ACT test.

I've been working in a volunteer part-time position for several months at Excellence for Detroit. The position was carefully designed to use my skills/time minimally to maximize impact. Expectations are clearly defined, and my suggestions and ideas to alter or add to my area of work are always welcomed. Despite the underfunded, undermanned, overworked leadership/staff situation, I always get prompt and clear communications -- plus appreciation for good work. This organization is *thoughtful* in its approach to every aspect of its work. It's made my experience very rewarding. I feel lucky to have found this role.