Causes: Human Service Organizations, Human Services

Mission: Thinking about Tomorrow, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, is dedicated to impacting the everyday lives of at-risk youths by helping them receive ALL they need to create a base of knowledge and a love of education. We believe that learning never ends and aim to inspire today’s children to become leaders in tomorrow’s community. With a thoughtful focus on the values we cherish; • Teamwork • Honor & Appreciation • Integrity & Honesty • Never give up • Keep consistent We hope to not only instill a sense of individual togetherness, but a sense of community togetherness as well.

Results: Through these programs, students have become more proficient in core subjects, had successful transitions into middle and high school and are more college/career ready. The communities in which we operate have also seen remarkable improvements in areas such as school truancy and high school graduation rates among others.

Target demographics: educate at-risk youths about the importance of education

Direct beneficiaries per year: 15 public schools affecting over 10,000 at-risk youths.

Geographic areas served: the local level with 'Title 1' public schools

Programs: Our “School is Cool” initiative: Thinking about Tomorrow believes that LEARNING never ends and is an important part of personal growth and for the growth of our community. Our “School is Cool” initiative creates high impact and meaningful programming to help ensure the success of all students. We’re ALL Here, Attendance Improvement Program - Schools that employ challenging curriculums and reinforce high expectations for academics are schools that give students the motivation to attend. Through our initiative, we make attendance a priority and reach out to all students to promote and encourage academic excellence by increasing their level of education through participation in classroom activities. Our program challenges kids to be at school everyday, rewards for perfect attendance, teaches teamwork, creates competitiveness and helps them learn to accept responsibility. By teaching students to value the importance of education, we aim to increase their overall interest while helping to bridge the gap between the educational inequities that currently exist. Back to School, School Supply Drive - Students living at or below the poverty line lack access to sufficient school supplies, and budget cuts to our school systems leave schools and teachers unable to provide these necessary items. Our support brings vital opportunities to high-risk students, affording critically needed educational stability. Kids on Campus, Higher Education Motivation - We believe in the value of higher education and motivation to do well NOW for the benefit of the future. Offering students a chance to visit with local universities in an effort to increase educational interest generates a sense of empowerment and a feeling of success, not only essential for academic achievement, but imperative for growth and development.