SOLE Effects

Sole effects truly cares about the growth and development of people. Every leader / guide has a heart to see people transformed by making daily small changes that can end up being revolutionary for their trajectory. To have a program that is so focused on educating people on the core values and skills to become a better you is so needed in our world. Thank you sole effects for having a heart for people and changing their lives to in turn help others change their lives. Ripple effect.

I had the opportunity to implement SOLE Effects in my 8th grade AVID elective classroom in the spring of 2023. The way SOLE Effects is organized makes it extremely easy for any Journey Leader to implement with students. The materials are extremely user friendly and the online platform is easy to navigate. After the first few adventures, students were asking when the next would be. The SOLEFX Journey gives educators and students the opportunity to learn about relevant, empowering topics, self-assess and reflect on their habits, have meaningful discussions in teams, and create goals and action steps to develop healthier habits. My students' confidence skyrocketed and their connections were strengthened. Thank you to Karen and the entire SOLE Effects team for this opportunity!

Before starting my time with SOLE Effects I was in my last semester of my senior year of college and I felt kind of lost because I didn’t know what I wanted to do post college. I was currently in a major that sounded intriguing to me at first but as time progressed throughout college I drifted further and further from enjoying that major and it’s various classes. I still remember my very first day interning at SOLE Effects, and it couldn’t have been more than 30 minutes into that day I just couldn’t stop smiling because I finally felt like I was doing something that made me feel like, not only was I making a difference in other peoples lives but, felt like I was in an environment that I could work in for the remainder of my life. After talking with my advisor and Karen and Kevin multiple times about my worries post college I realized I wanted to be in the mental health field and not the criminal justice field. The purpose of SOLE Effects is to have these ninth grade students find their purpose and live that, but by helping others do this, I found my own purpose and am now beginning to live that. I am currently in the process for looking for masters programs to get a Masters of Social Work in and plan on going into Marriage and Family Therapy, and quite frankly without those amazing few months without working with SOLE Effects, I fear that I would still be lost and confused and just sitting around with a criminology degree that didn’t really mean much to me other than the fact I had graduated. Everything this program does from its advisors, to the college mentors and the young adults it impacts is truly amazing. What Karen and Kevin have done here is something I wish I could have experienced in high school and hope schools all across the nation can have the impact of an amazing programs like this. I am beyond grateful for the opportunity I got to work with SOLE Effects and can’t wait to see them grow even more.

I was fortunate to work with this nonprofit program last year as a mentor. Karen and Kevin Ogden, along with Paula Zimmerman have spent hours developing curriculum to support ninth grade students with social and emotional skill building skills, utilizing college mentors to deliver the content curriculum in small group settings. The goal is for the young high school students to develop confidence to make healthy choices and positively influence others. I witnessed many high school students open up during conversations about situations they struggled with, but didn't know where to get help. The skills they learned in this program gave them hope. As a lifelong educator, this program is one of the best social/emotions tools I have experienced.

From the beginning, Sole Effects has been the most dedicated, genuine and driven organization in pursuit of truly helping our youth. The benefits to students, especially at the middle school and high school range from the Sole Effects program is enormous. Navigating the social media world with the good and the bad that it offers can be so difficult for our youth, whether realized or not. Then throw in a couple of years of Covid and the after effects for our students, the help needed intensified and the program benefits are even more abundant,
Thankfully, Sole Effects had grown, perfecting their materials and their process so they were ready to fill the need of our struggling students to educate themselves, become more self-aware, defining their life, their goals and their leader ship capabilities. The pride that is shown by the recipients as well as the mentors, is heartwarming and a successful measure. As a volunteer I too share in that pride and joy that this kind of eye opening program brings to our youth. Be the change you want to see - thank you Sole Effects for being that & more!

This experience was amazing!
The organizational aspects were well-thought out and executed with precision.
The most rewarding aspect of this important volunteer work was observing the college students working with the high school students.
The college students learned so much about leading and the high school students learned that there are caring adults other than their parents and teachers.
I learned that college students have so much to offer and their wisdom is invaluable and most worthwhile when it is shared.
Getting to know the college students on a personal level and guiding them through their work with the high school students was equally special for me. The college students were always so receptive to feedback and learned that they indeed also have caring adults in their lives. SOLE Effects is an outstanding nonprofit program that benefits volunteers, college students, and high school students.

I have an infinite number of amazing memories throughout my time in SOLE Effects as a Lead Guide. I must admit that my absolute favorite memories are that of working alongside my significant other. Mentoring high school students about value based leadership definitely sparked a lot of conversations with my significant other after those long volunteer days. We would reflect on the values of the week and discuss how we can better practice what we were preaching by always striving to grow together. How often do couples get such an opportunity to grow together… for yourselves, our relationship, our high school students who we were mentoring, our fellow college mentors, our fellow advisors, and just for the goodness of our hearts!? SOLE Effects is special and that is an obvious, but it’s those personal experiences that are so unique and giving. - Michael Harder

I had the pleasure of working with this group in an advisory role. I could see first hand how impactful this program is for both students and mentors. This curriculum should be in ALL schools.

Sole Effect is such a wonderful organization! The passion that all the advisors and volunteers have shows and everyone is supportive of one another. Being able to help younger students reach their full potential was a great experience and is very fulfilling. Anyone who works with Sole Effects is lucky and will have life long connections!

I served as an advisor to College Mentors. The program is highly effective and impactful.

I began as a volunteer advisor and administrative assistant for SOLE Effects in November of 2021. I was able to see firsthand the powerful impact that this program had on the lives of our adult advisors, college mentors, and 9th grade high school students. I saw invaluable leadership skills and tools for navigating life that were imparted by our advisors to our mentors and then from our mentors to the 9th graders at Rancho Bernardo High School. I saw priceless relationship connections being formed at all levels. Each week our curriculum covered a crucial topic that was extremely relevant and applicable to the lives of those 9th graders who were just beginning their high school careers. From developing a life’s passion and purpose, to stress relief and courageous communication, to healthy relationships- the topics we covered with the 9th graders will be crucial to their lives going forward to college and beyond. As an educator and leader I have not seen a curriculum as effective as this one in making a true difference in the lives of young adults and high schoolers. I can’t say enough about the positive benefits of SOLE Effects for anyone involved with this program (me included)!

Working with Sole Effects has been nothing but a joy. The mentors and other volunteers are all very caring and helpful and always have a positive attitude. As we all know starting high school can be a tough time. Having someone who has been there and can relate to some of the struggles the kids face really makes a difference. Watching them grow and become more confident in themselves in the weeks that we are there is the most rewarding feeling.

SOLE Effects is an amazing nonprofit to work with. They truly appreciate every volunteer, and it’s so rewarding to be able to see the difference you make. I’m so grateful for all the doors they opened for me and the wonderful friendships and connections that I made along the way.

I have been a mentor for Sole Effects for over 4 years now. It is what has allowed me to have such a fantastic life. Through mentoring, I have received so much. Whether it has been working with the kids, working with the college mentors, or running the Leadership Certification Course, Sole Effects has done amazing things for me. It has also made me a strong leader myself, and I feel I have been able to take that new found leadership and help lead Sole Effects to a bright future.

Joining Sole Effects for me was completely life changing. It was the first time I got to look inwardly and develop myself in a space where everyone is looking to support and help one another grow. Truly a great organization to join at whatever age- from high school, to college, to in a career and in adulthood. It's multigenerational approach ensures that you get to learn from many different perspectives, and I highly encourage anyone who is working on themselves to join this program.

I've been involved with this organization, on and off, for the past three years and it has always been a new exciting and eye-opening experience with each year. SOLE Effects has been able to provide their interns and volunteers with new skillsets and perspective, particularly with their Leadership Certification Course this past Spring of 2021.

They've given the interns the space and opportunity to learn and grow from amazing speakers as well as their peers, more so this year than in any other. From engaging TEDx-style talks to various small group discussions regarding mental health and wellness, I have no doubt that this past year has been the most successful for SOLE Effects and sets a new bar of excellence all-around.

For myself, it has helped with a better introspective look on how to grow as a mentor, both in shortcomings and strengths. For many others, it has given them the space to dive into their strengths and vulnerabilites while being confident in how they can lead others around them. This is a non-profit organization that has exciting promise in their future and the results to prove it.

Working with SOLE Effects and attending the Leadership Certification Course have impacted my life in huge ways. My confidence in myself has increased exponentially, not to mention my professional skills. SOLE Effects showed me what I am capable of. Karen and Kevin assisted me in getting an interview with a company in my field and continue to support me in so many ways! There are endless ways SOLE Effects has positively impacted my life to the point I’d say that my life changed for the better through working with SOLE Effects. Most importantly, the people and connections I’ve made are the most genuine and special!!

There is so much more to say but I will leave it at that.

SOLE Effects impacted me in ways I wasn’t expecting it too. I was really nervous going into a new program with zero friends, but in every testimony on their website they raved about how welcoming it is. They were all completely right! From meeting with Karen, Kevin, and Paula to meeting the other Volunteers and Advisors everyone was so kind! This inspired me to be more open minded and welcoming to everyone around me.
Also, I changed my career path a little due to SOLE Effects and Karen’s speech at the end. After hearing a new story every week and listening to Karen talk about her experience helping college students this past year was impactful considering we need just as much help as high school students. That helped me understand I want to help college students reach success. So, if I never joined SOLE Effects I would’ve never learned about the need college students have and I wouldn’t have gained just great leadership skills that I didn’t have before.
SOLE Effect is THE new upcoming nonprofit and everyone should support if you can, because they genuinely care about their audience, volunteers, employees, and anyone else who comes through their doors.

Where do I even begin. I have been with Sole Effects for about 4 years now and it has changed my life in so many ways. What I love about Sole Effects is that you go into it knowing you can have the impact to change these kids lives but you never realize until it’s actually happening that these kids can change your life. I have had the amazing opportunity to work with these high schoolers and they are quite inspiring and unique. Sole Effects made me a more confident leader and person while still being humble and true to myself. Sole Effects will forever have a place in my heart, it has helped shape me into the young woman I am becoming.

Sole Effects has awakened me to my own potential as an individual. This was achieved throughout my 8 weeks of training of different skills such as 'Communication', 'Public Speaking', etc. During these training sessions and breakout groups I was able to transpire this idea of myself that "I'm not a leader" into "I'm a natural leader". I realized that every one of these skills I already had, or could improve, and anyone can become a leader.

This is why it is important for future generations. Programs such as Sole Effects are gathering passionate youth to teach high schoolers (and each other) the skills they need to achieve their own dreams. We are taught in school how to do math, about the government, and perhaps even how to do taxes. What we are not taught it how to effectively communicate with one another about problems, how to have healthy relationships, how to enjoy public speaking, and how to build trust with teammates. Sole Effects has mastered creating an environment to foster growth and effective learning.

You might ask what makes a leader? My answer would be, someone who isn't afraid of going after their goals, someone who isn't afraid to be themselves, and someone who isn't afraid of laughing at themselves. Being a leader doesn't mean always being perfect, it's about standing back up and knowing where you'd like to go.

Most of all, within this program I've found a community of like-minded people that want to grow, inspire, and touch the hearts of people around us. That is priceless. I am forever grateful to call Sole Effects a home I can always go back to and rely on.

When I first joined SOLE Effects, I joined a an Intern in order to fulfill credits to graduate. I joined not knowing a single thing about what they did or who they were.
Going into this blind, I was a bit nervous and skeptical.
After the very first meeting with the team, I instantly felt like this was somewhere where I needed to be!
Karen and Paula were some of the most genuine and helpful women I had ever met.
Kicking off the semester, SOLE Effects held a Leadership Certification course.
We met once a week in the cutest little barn and had the opportunity to hear multiple guest speakers throughout this course.

Not only did we get fed great life skills and supportive networks, but we also got the opportunity to speak out and share our own stories.
We talked about a multitude of topics covering self confidence all the way up to success in the business world.

During this time of the Leadership Course, I went through some hardship revolving my family life as well as my intimate relationships.
The team at SOLE Effects, were some of the most kindhearted/supportive people I had ever met. They helped me navigate through these challenges and I had only known most of these people for a month or so, when they treated me like I had known them for 10+ years.

Looking back on my first experience with SOLE Effects, I can confidently say that they have changed my life in all the best ways and I am forever thankful to have met this AMAZING group of people!
They allowed me to grow in all aspects of my life covering my career goals, relationships, self image, and SO much more.
Even though I started out as an intern, I do plan on continuing my journey with them for as long as I can.
My hope is that SOLE Effects can continue to grow and help the lives of many other young students like myself navigate this crazy world.

We’re all livin in it, why not help each other out!

I got involved in SOLE Effects as a student mentor in early 2021. Having gone through their leadership training, I’ve learned a huge amount about both myself and my connections with others.

The people I’ve met through this organization are some of the most diverse, creative, and uplifting people I’ve ever had the privilege to call colleagues and friends. I’d reflected on my first day that my face got sore from smiling so much.

I feel much healthier both as an individual and in my relationships thanks to what I’ve learned in SOLE Effects’ programs.

My experience with SOLE Effects has changed my life in the best way. After completing the leadership course, I have developed a newfound confidence that I needed to live a passionate purposeful life after graduating college.

The lessons I have gathered from SOLE Effects and the people that I have met there, are ones that I will always cherish. I have learned how to love myself so deeply that I am able to pour into others. I can say that I am proud of my work and my art because I choose to put my energy towards all that is meaningful to me. I make time for the things and the people that I care about and set healthy boundaries. I step out of my comfort zone because I know that is the only way towards growth. Thank you SOLE Effects team for the guidance and the support.

This semester, I had a wonderful opportunity to be an intern at something so remarkable. SOLE Effects envisions to impact and transform the lives of people. Their work is not only significant to society but is beyond commendable. It was an honor to be a part of something so special as SOLE Effects. I hope I get another opportunity to work with them and project the same dedication, enthusiasm, commitment, and values as SOLE Effects does.
Thank you for everything!

As a former director of attendance and discipline for a large school district, I am aware of programs to support the social and emotional needs of students. I have had the privilege of seeing SOLE Effects program in action in my district and tracking their work. The uniqueness of SOLE Effects is that experienced educators and psychologists train and guide college students who in turn mentor 9th grade students. It’s apparent that research-based preventative practices are used. These teens are very engaged and love attending, building strong trusting relationships with their mentors over eight weeks where they are provided safe environments to share life challenges. SOLE Effects program is the answer for students to become strong leaders, impacting their communities.

As a professional in the leadership skills training field, it has been an absolute pleasure working with founders Karen & Kevin, and the SOLE Effects team since the beginning of 2020.

During my own post-graduate leadership studies I was often left wondering why essential leadership and influencing skills were not being taught in High Schools. Fast forward to meeting Karen and Kevin to discover, they are doing just that!

SOLE Effects run interactive leadership development programs designed to arm 9th Graders with the skills to lead purposeful, productive, and engaged lives. Teaching practical and adaptable skills for students to use in both their academic and personal life.

The program is delivered by a team of passionate, expertly trained college mentors, under the supervision of experienced coaches and advisors. The result is an impressive and effective multi-generational leadership development experience.

Karen, Kevin, and the team have created a truly inspirational program, one that should be a compulsory component in all schools' social and emotional learning curriculum.

I'm a videographer and I was hired to help create training videos for the adventure program and I have got to say these have been some of the nicest clients I have ever worked with. Super understanding and well organized, the entire process was smooth and productive. I'd happily work with them again in the future.

It's absolutely gratifying to see SOLE Effect's leaders pour their hearts into teaching local students leadership skills and supporting the teens' strides toward emotional intelligence. This type of education is sorely lacking in our educational system, yet kids cannot reach their full human potential without it. Thank you, SOLE Effects, for sharing your wisdom with our kids. Our community and its families will be stronger and healthier as a result.

SOLE Effects has a full circle impact. This organization has brought meaning into my life that propelled me to pursue a master’s degree in social work. I was able to come along young individuals and give them an ear to hear them and give them the tools I did not have when I was their age. The amount of care that is put into this program transcends from the owners to the mentors and right to the students. SOLE Effects is the change we need today

So amazing! SOLE Effects has brought necessary life skills to youth in San Diego county. SOLE Effects is an outstanding organization which has provided youth with tools to be the most healthy and successful people they can be!

My time as a volunteer with SOLE Effects has taught me many valuable life-altering skills from hearing the stories of the team and youth. Truly, the SOLE Effects team is incredibly talented and supportive. There is not a single one of the volunteers who wouldn't go the extra mile to help others in need. The supervisors and leaders in SOLE Effects are THE best type of people the world has.

This organization does such an efficient job at encouraging the youth to be supportive of themselves and others. The widespread effects which this organization is having is so immense and should be expanded to as many areas as possible to encourage ALL to be the best people they can be!

When I was in high school, I wish I had this program because I know I would have been able to cope with my life stressors during high school in a more productive and healthy way. I am so glad that there is an organization like SOLE Effects that's dedicated to making an impact on people's lives no matter how small or large they are.

They are making incredible life changing experiences for youth. They provide countless opportunities for kids and volunteers to grow and see lasting change in their life.

Our souls were enriched as we served as Advisors for Sole Effects. Lifetime Educators, Kevin and Karen have created such an exceptional learning environment for students and grown, (Senior), adults like my husband and me. We loved our comprehensive Training day where we were trained for our roles. We also had the opportunity to get to know our College aged Students -Guides.
Sole Effects is brilliantly set up in a format where Advisors mentor guides. The guides mentor 9th grade students. Additionally, as volunteers, the guides fulfill College Internship requirements . The program is set up to meet for eight Fridays in the High School.
The wonderful guides were influential in creating a safe environment that led to deep and meaningful discussions. Each week the 9th graders enjoyed music, videos, skits, a real life story, professional skill tips and a life Adventure concept. This program beautifully equips students to live meaningful and successful lives! We definitely saw the Win-Win effects for everyone! Patty and Scott

As a student of Cal State San Marcos, I got an opportunity to witness the commendable work that Sole Effects presents. Their work and efforts towards making life better are remarkable. They are not only passionate but also highly dedicated to bringing a difference in student’s life and values. They leave no stones unturned in making sure that every student cherishes and embraces the leadership qualities in them. I cannot be more honored to work as an intern with them soon. Their values, teachings, and goals have inspired me the most and I cannot wait to learn more and be a better leader!

Entering into the program, I was nervous. There were a lot of other members ~30, and I was the newest member. During the training, I got to meet Karen and Kevin, and I was immediately put at ease. They were so friendly and welcoming, but that didn't stop with just them. Everyone that I talked to, including the other volunteers and the mentors were very nice and made me feel welcomed. Every individual that I have met has been exceptional, making it a pleasure to join them. I have given extremely high praise of the team members, but haven't even gotten to the teens yet. The work with the teens feels very satisfying. The other team members and I feel a strong sense of accomplishment and gratification, knowing that our time with the teens is having an impact on their development into capable young adults. Not only do we feel that we are making a difference in the teen's life, but the teens have just as strong of an impact on our own development. I feel that I have grown a lot and have developed many skills being a member of the Sole Effects team. For anyone looking to help others, or even develop themselves, Sole Effects is an excellent place to do just that.

I am a recently retired high school teacher, and wanted to continue to serve youth in my area. I became an advisor with SOLE Effects in 2019 and have been amazed by their company. This group is solely and passionately dedicated to helping youth with the real problems they face daily. In my 8 sessions with youth I saw real change in the high school Students who opened up and got great support from the college mentors. AND I saw the college mentors make impressively candid and open connections with the high school student. The college mentors grew as leaders and their passion for giving back to their community was inspiring. As a 30 yr High school Health teacher, I have never seen a program come into the school so seamlessly and have such a profound and I believe lasting effect. Our youth today NEED this program for their social and emotional health

Sole Effect's is one of the most impactful, rewarding non-profits I've ever volunteered with/advised. The multi-generation emotional skill-building mentoring program is special, because it enables college-age youth to mentor 9th graders, and professionals to mentor the young adults. The college mentors, working with small groups of 9th graders, focus on skills and strategies to build emotional health and make good choices, using real world examples the kids can relate to. And as adult advisors we have the joy of working with and helping guide some of the most wonderful young adults! It is rewarding for all!

I joined SOLE Effects during my second year of college. During the program, I learned how to encourage high school students to embrace who they are and become confident youth with the help of mentors. Being a part of the program has helped me as well to become a more confident and enthusiastic person and member of SOLE Effects. The program had a positive impact on my life and I plan to continue to volunteer and change the lives of youth!

My daughter was introduced to this amazing group by a friend at the University she attends. She became a Mentor her 2nd year of college and I have seen a dramatic change in her leadership and confidence since she joined this group. I had the pleasure of attending one of the sessions and was blown away how much this group does to make a difference for the students they mentor. Their presentations and break out sessions were genuine and inspiring. My daughter feels this has been the most positive experience she has experienced while in college and looks forward to making a difference in other lives and her own! Love Sole Effects! Thank you for all you do!

As an incoming third year guide I can safely say that Sole Effects is dedicated to what they do and are great at doing it as well. The feeling of putting forth more effort in today’s youth and seeing our efforts passed on is truly heartwarming.

As a volunteer, I found both my voice and passion for education. I guess it is true that “the best way to find yourself is to first lose yourself in the service of others,” because I find myself now studying education at my current university, and I will go on to teaching next year. This organization was the impetus for much of my current and future ambitions. Wonderful program, and it has even more wonderful founders – Kevin and Karen, thank you both for everything!

SOLE Effects has brought joy and happiness to my heart. As an intern working with Karen over the last few months she has given me the opportunity to help this organization grow in more ways then I could have imagined. I see her and this group of amazing individuals bringing so much confidence and courage into the lives of teens that continue to struggle with so many issues today. I hope to work with her and bring awareness on many of the social issues that can impact these young minds. With dedication and love I see this organization making one of the biggest impacts on young teens for generations to come. Thank you Karen for sharing your passion and purpose in life with me.

I am a retired teacher and administrator, and last year I had the opportunity to serve as a mentor to the college age "guides" who work with the high school students. I was so impressed with the topics and the level of deep sharing that flowed within the groups. Once the students saw that the guides were genuine and authentic, that the conversations were relevant, and that process was trustworthy, students opened up. In their mentors and from their peers, they found validation, reinforcement and guidance to help them navigate the rigorous journey toward developing their true identities as healthy young adults. My mentees were eager for feedback and suggestions to help them better serve the students and make their group meetings more effective. In this setting, personal development is THE curriculum, not a byproduct.

Confused and uncertain of what I wanted to do with my future, I decided to volunteer for Sole Effects. It definitely switched my life around and help me find something I am passionate about; helping others. During the 8 weeks, I was able to help create a safe environment for my students which allowed them to open up. We discussed ways to switch their habits into healthy habits, as well as talk about life in general. At first, many of my students were shy but as the weeks went by my students began to confide in me. Not only was that feeling life changing, but it made me emotional. Not only did I learn a great deal about my students, I learned a great deal about myself. Sole Effects helped me realize my own habits and have helped me switch to a healthier lifestyle, which is something that every student can take away from this program! I highly recommend partaking in this program! I rave about it to everyone I meet!

I joined SOLE Effects spring of 2019 and the whole process allowed me to not only become a better speaker but a better leader. My groups of kids at Del Norte were wonderful. They showed up everyday enthusiastic and ready to talk about anything they had been going through over the week. I’m very much so looking forward to next spring and also looking forward to see how I can grow as a mentor.

I served as a guide for this program last year, I can say that I had a wonderful experience interacting with students and other memebers of this group. I found that students were very interested in the material provided and the feedback that was received from students at the end of the program exceeded my high expectations of the wealth of this program. I am a student at cal state San Marcos practicing for a BA in psychology and from what I have learned through my schooling and experiences in sole effects, this nonprofit exceeds the much needed relief for students experiencing adolescent stress and struggle as well as serving as a guide to navigate life’s many ups and downs. I can not express my gratitude for this nonprofit enough, it truly is a wonderful program.

As a member of the community foundation that helped fund this program in a local high school, I can not say enough about the issues that SOLE Effects addresses in our overly stressed student population. Using trained college students as peer mentors, they are addressing the the toxic brew of negative emotions including academic and sports pressure, stress, worthlessness, inferiority, competitive angst, parental expectations, etc. that are plaguing so many young people today. The program's first year was so successful that the principal made it his goal that every student in the high school should pass through this program. The staff that started and implement the program are all highly qualified and dedicated professionals from the education and psychology fields. I am very proud to have played a small part in bringing this much needed focus to the local high school.

I am a parent of kids who grew up in the area, a business owner employing youths and a philanthropic and community service leader in this area. I have seen a lot of well meaning efforts to effect a needle moving change in the way today's youth deals with the myriad of stresses on them but have never seen anything quite as remarkable as what Sole Effects is doing. Really remarkable.

Leadership begins with self esteem and that is where the Switch program focuses it's attention. By identifying the many sources of attacks on self esteem and allowing the students to see it, identify what is causing it and also develop skills to defend against this, it allows leadership to fill the void. Amazing program that should be replicated nationwide in my view. This motivates our Rotary Club to grant funds to this program annually.

Craig Brown

During my time at Sole Effects as a volunteer/college mentor, I got to experience first-hand the powerful impact this organization had on the youth we worked with.

I enjoyed getting to know each student by building trust and offering a safe space for them to share their stories. This led to open and honest discussions about the issues they struggled with daily, which enabled us to teach them valuable life and leadership skills to help cope and overcome the struggles they faced.

I would highly recommend this organization and feel honored to have had the opportunity to volunteer with them.

I have worked with SOLE Effects for two years as a advisor with our leadership mentors. The growth that I see each year in our mentors is amazing. The work that they do on teaching life skills and leadership to our 7-9th grader students is a gift to our community that will reap untold benefits in the future. I am truly lucky and honored to be able to contribute in a small way to this amazing effort.


Mike M.

During my time at CSUSM, I’ve worked with Sole Effects twice and each time I found it more and more valuable.

Not only did we as students and volunteers give back, we also received so much out of it: chances to open up and share to students about our own experiences, chances to open up with each other as well as seeing how our stories and our leadership have impacted to our students.

I would love to see Sole Effects continue to impact lives.

I have been helping families for 35 years and I find the work of SOLE Effects to be one of the best supports for families. It is brilliant to mentor College Students to teach life skills and lead small groups for Middle and High School. Youth learn best from those just a bit older. Parents have a crucial role in their young persons life, but the more they can have positive reinforcement, the more they thrive. Youth admit themselves, they are in trouble with the stress and pressures of life. I will do whatever I can to help SOLE Effects be available to every family!

I have worked with both Kevin and Karen Ogden for many years both in a professional relationship and a personal one. I remember many years ago meeting with Karen as she shared her dream of starting a program to help young adolescents with the many trials and tribulations they face. Karen consulted professionals in the field of education and those working in the mental health sector. Karen wanted to make sure that she led a team to design a program, SWITCH Adventure, that was realistic to the issues young people face today; low self-esteem, bullying, peer issues etc. From her sitting room in Poway she has created a vision that has materialized into a program that has "launched young people" valuing themselves and learning that they are an important part of society and that their voices count.
In my capacity as an Adjunct Professor at Palomar Community College, I have been able to offer my students an opportunity to work with Karen's students as "teachers, students and peer mentors." My students after having done Volunteer work through Service Learning with SOLE Effects, have come back enhanced in knowing that had made a difference in these teens’ lives Our youth are being bombarded with false advertising on how to build self-esteem, to be dressed only in the best clothes and having their statements and sometimes their lives mocked on Facebook and Instagram. College students share their experiences of having "been there" and the paths that are available to become important adults not having to accept bullying, peer pressure and knowing that they do not have to live up to other people's standards but their own.
This is excellent program is a win-win both for the students enrolled and to the Volunteers who work in their program. This program is a must for all Middle and High School students as they try to traverse their adolescents. I support this program whole-heartedly.

As a retired educator and one of SOLE Effects' donors and supporters, I wish to extol the outstanding merits of this nonprofit. I have personally observed this organization in operation several times. To see lives of teens change before your eyes is something to behold. SOLE Effects' emphasis is on building leadership skills in 7th, 8th and 9th graders. Additionally, it is eye-opening to see the personal growth of the college interns. Recently I overheard one of SOLE's interns state, "This program has UNLEASHED me, and now I feel I know my PURPOSE!" He is now the lead guide and will be for 3 additional years. He is active in on-line fundraising and has recently participated in the making of a newly released video for SOLE Effects.
I highly recommend SOLE Effects be placed on the list of "GREATNONPROFITS" for 2018!

Being a part of SWITCH has definitely switched my life around. SWITCH was not only an internship for me, it was more. It was a way for me to share my stories and challenges in hope to encourage students that life does go on even after the obstacles we face. I took on the internship because I wanted to make an impact on people's lives but I came out with many memories and lessons learned. From tears being shed to uncontrollable laughter, we went through it all together! At first it was difficult for the students to open up and speak but by the end of the 8 sessions we made some powerful bonds with many of the students. I had an incredible experience and can't wait for next year!

It continues to be an honor & pleasure to work with the SWITCH team of leaders. I am in my 3rd year of advising for SWITCH. It is amazing to watch the college students flourish as they challenge themselves through their connections with middle & high school students. At the same time the middle and high school students learn in a small group setting with their peers about relevant & critical topics in our society today. To me this model has the potential to change lives and school campus climates in a very important, positive way. I will continue to work with SWITCH and promote it as a positive for all school campuses.

I had the privilege of volunteering as a leadership coach for SOLE Effects in 2017. This is a wonderful 8-week program that is fun, engaging, and what I believe to be vital for young teens to experience. It is 8 weeks of positive interaction in which students learn about topics ranging from body image to healthy relationships at such a crucial point in their lives. Not only did SOLE Effects make me a better leader, it made me a better human being as I was positively influencing teenagers to stay on course to lead fulfilling, healthy lives.

I have so many positive things to say about SOLE Effects, I do not know where to begin. My internship with SOLE Effects was one the best experience that I have ever had. Everyone that I met and worked with were extremely friendly and passionate about helping others. SOLE Effects' curriculum, volunteers, and leaders truly represent the organization's mission to grow strong leaders through influential role models. They make sure that students and members of the community not only receive a message about leadership, but that they understand it's importance and get the tools they need to be strong leaders - and have fun while doing it! SOLE Effects is more than just a non-profit organization, it is a family, a family that will always offer support and care. They truly believe in you. SOLE Effects changed my life, they made me believe in myself. If you ever have a chance to be a part of their program, TAKE IT!

What an amazing experience for students. I was able to witness my daughter practice, in her daily life, what she learned from the Sole Effects' sessions. Skills in leadership, positive life-style choices, staying healthy, having a positive mindset, and being confident were the "take-aways" for her- giving her the foundation to navigate successfully in High School.

SOLE Effects doesn't just host awesome leadership groups, assemblies and events. They change lives by investing in people. I have been fortunate enough to provide videography services to SOLE Effects. They have allowed me to express my creativity and experiment in the art of media. I started volunteering my time as an 8th grader. Looking back three years later, I can say that my experience with them has been invaluable. Because of all the great opportunities they've given me, today I'm working to pursue my passion and make it my career.

SOLE Effects has greatly impacted my life and helped guide me onto the path I am currently on. January of 2016 I signed up to volunteer for this life changing organization with hopes that I would discover if I could possibly be a leader. I had very low self-esteem and felt unworthy of the leader roll.

Most of us have a troubled past that haunts us and quite possibly deters us from reaching our goals. My childhood was very troubling which caused me to reach out for influential leaders. I wanted someone in my life I could look up to. I once heard that in order to be successful you must surround yourself with people you aspire to be. By sticking to this motto, I found myself one semester away from graduating with a BA in psychology. My success story is thanks to the mentors I surrounded myself with growing up. It is the reason why i reached out to SOLE Effects, I so deeply believed in their cause that I hope to one day mirror the impact this organization has on the developing minds of oir youth.

My experience with this organization was a challenging one that pushed me to get out of my comfort zone. I spoke in front of 80 middle school kids "assembly style" sharing my stories of weaknesses and triumphs with the hopes that they could see that they can achieve anything as long as they keep in mind our montra to Step out (of conformity, the social boundaries, or norms) and change the game (Be the change you want to see in the world)! I helped develop some of the rubric with Mrs. Ogden spening countless hours at a coffee shop trying to make it perfect for the mentors to deliver the message and the young adolescents to revieve it. The most game changing part for me was being the leader among my peers. I had to relay our vision of SOLE Effects to my peers and try to amp them up to be as passionate about changing the game as I am.

I finished my volunteering with SOLE Effects with something more valuable than money could ever buy. The exlerience and knowledge of what it takes to be a leader and shape others to be leaders as well.

I can't thinknof any reasons why any person wouldn't want to be invlolved with this program. It's one pf the few things in the world that has only one motivation and that is making sure the adolescents in the world have the necessary keys to open the doors to their bright futures.

Having Volunteered at SOLE Effects, in Spring of 2017, I walked away from that experience with a whole new energy. In my experience at SOLE Effects, I got to be the leader of the SWITCH program, help train future leadership coaches, and even assist in raising money for SOLE Effects by pitching their idea to school's and grant committees. The whole semester got me to take an inner look into who I am and what I want from life.

While volunteering with SOLE Effects, I also was applying for colleges to finish my degree. I got accepted into NYU's undergraduate program at Stern School of Business, the number 2 school in the nation for my degree in Finance! I have always been a strong student, yet NYU had initially rejected my application the year before. I am a firm believer that volunteering with SOLE Effects played a role in my acceptance there.

I am forever grateful to Kevin and Karen for all their mentorship and belief in who I am. They are all about empowering others to be their best selves, and I HIGHLY recommend SOLE Effects for any college student looking to volunteer, school looking to help their students grow, and philanthropists looking to make a difference. SOLE Effects is that difference.

As an older senior citizen, retired educator, volunteer and donor, I am incredibly inspired and encouraged by SOLE Effects' inter-generational approach. My observations of their SWITCH program, with relevant curriculum that's personalized, has been proven to be highly effective in meeting the goals outlined in their mission statement. By partnering with our nearby university's business department, using their senior interns as "coaches", SOLE Effects has created a community-based approach to aiding our youth in becoming future leaders for our country. Please offer your support to this outstanding non-profit which provides critical needs for our youth.

Sole Effects is an amazing program that I am honored to be a part of as a member of the Sole Effect’s board. I am a former teacher and counselor of 35 years, and now retired, find that my own passion for what I did all of those years in education is able to be carried on in a most meaningful way. After seventeen years working at the middle school level, I watched as the needs of our students changed dramatically; becoming even more challenging for them to navigate the social fabric we all inhabit, which has been significantly impacted in a fast paced world of non-stop stimulus and technology. The family unit, also affected by the pressures of both parents having to work to make ends meet, students often trying to figure things out for themselves, teachers realizing how much of their day is dedicated more and more to the personal/social needs of their students in addition to teaching their subject matter has only continued to increase. Not only did I see it through the 8th grade at the middle school, but then I watched and had to constantly improvise each year with more ways to help our kids at the high school level. Sole Effects, just as a concept, helping students learn from other students, the many facets of navigating the difficult times they live in, and personally ‘just growing up’, could not have come about at a more perfect time. The growth of, not only our role models from the college level, but also their influence on the young minds and hearts of the students they work with, is more than amazing. The changes are being seen in the lives of students who are so positively being affected by the teachings and positive influences of the lessons of Sole Effects. I am sure with time; this program will become the model for programs across the state, and will continue to be relevant in the lives of students. The significance of the Sole Effects program, sown here in Poway, is only the beginning of the direction schools everywhere will find inspiring and a most welcome addition to meeting the needs of all our children to become strong, confident leaders who will ‘pass it forward’. Making a donation, no matter how small, will be returned in the most meaningful way, through our kids.

My experience with Sole Effects was one of growth. Days spent talking about leadership manifested into self-actualization. Namely, teaching leadership made me realize my potential as a leader. Further, the short-time spent with this organization allowed me to truly understand my passions as an individual to help others. Because of this, subsequent to my time with Sole Effects, I began forming student-run organizations that focused on social issues, along with continuing my service with other non-profits. I would not have been able to find my passions to help others nor realize my potential as a leader without the help of this organization.

Highly recommended and a truly commendable nonprofit.

The team at Sole Effects brings together their decades of experience in teaching and working with youth and the high-energy, innovative spirit of college kids to create an impactful student mentoring program. The SWITCH program speaks to the heart of issues facing young people today and aims their work at middle and high school students. They have tailored lessons that feel like a fun day at camp but elicit honest conversations with kids who are struggling to navigate their teen years. From eating disorders to bullying to finding ways to connect with peers, to struggles with digital overload, they train their college mentor team to both share their own real-world experiences and to provide a safe space for teens to open up and receive guidance. Their adult leadership team is carefully selected to guarantee that the mentors are well trained and that the student participants will have the follow up they need. Our PTSA believes strongly in providing social-emotional support as a pillar of educating the whole child and Sole Effects makes it possible. Our minimal investment in financial support for this program was returned to us ten-fold by the changes we saw in our students. This organization is top notch. If you have a chance to bring this program to your school or youth program, it's a must!
Rachel Allums, Past President, Twin Peaks Middle School PTSA

In my opinion, SWITCH is a revolutionary program addressing a variety of critical issues that our teenagers struggle with. Through the use of college students that serve as influential role models, they assist our teenagers in learning how to build strong and healthy relationships, how to positively deal with stress, body image issues and unhealthy relationships. Finding their passion/purpose in life, building their communication skills and learning how to work as a team are additional areas of focus that help equip our teens in how to navigate the real world and live their most authentic selfs. Every teenager should be given the opportunity to experience such a program. I hope SWITCH continues to expand to other schools and impact many more lives.