My Nonprofit Reviews

My first introduction to Aim High was many years ago when it was operating under the auspices of Lick Wilmerding High School. I watched the program in action one day, and was stunned by the high quality of the program. I am an independent school educator, experienced in evaluating curriculum and the way it is delivered by teachers. What I saw that morning, delivered free to under-served middle school children, equaled, and in some areas, surpassed the very best middle school independent programs. The specific markers I looked for were all there: teachers skillfully calibrating their methods, minute by minute, as the lessons proceeded; intensely engaged students accepting the challenge of stretching themselves so that they were creating the knowledge, finding the answers, instead of being told them. I watched happy kids in a nurturing community realizing that learning is self empowering. So when Aim High became an independent not for profit organization, I became a board member.
Since that time Aim High has grown to serve 2,200 students. And, by diligent, data-based evaluation, both internal and external, has consistently refined and improved the program. Moreover, by intentional, carefully considered strategies, Aim High has managed its growth, not only to serve more children, but also to grow continually stronger as an organization with ambitious plans to expand to 6,000 students by 2020.
Research tells us that middle school is critical. Research also tells us that children in low-income situations fall behind academically in the summer. Thus Aim High's focus is exactly where it should be: an exemplary summer program of academics and youth development for under-served middle school children.

I have been involved with a great many non profit organizations, and I can say with no reservations that Aim High is the best run of them all. Every minute of contributed work by volunteers, and every dollar given the organization goes directly to provide a life-changing educational experience to wonderful middle school boys and girls from low income families. There is just no waste. The mission is clear, its execution superb. If you want to make a difference, get behind this excellent organization

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