WHY BECOME AN ACHIEVER?

• Develop a positive sense of self
• Build character
• Explore diverse college/career options
• Access to college scholarships
• Interact with professionals (Adult Achievers) who serve as role models
• Community service opportunities
• Meet and build relationships with peers throughout the community 

MAJOR PROGRAM COMPONENTS

Career Clusters. Achievers meet regularly to explore the world of work, including career fields of interest and to work on social/soft skills, character development, leadership development, and career and college etiquette.

Monthly School Visits.  Monthly school visits are held to share upcoming events, activities, and new initiatives and to introduce new students to Achievers Program.

Career Readiness for Juniors and Seniors. In partnership with local colleges, Achievers attend strategy sessions and practice tests on ACT/SAT, learn how to complete college applications, write essays, and explore college grants and scholarship opportunities. Students will complete the FAFSA Application. Students will complete a Skills and Interest Assessment and a Career Action Plan.

Special Events. Throughout the year, events focusing on college and career empowerment are held. Events include but are not limited to: Job Fair/World of Work, Career Summit, End of Year Celebration.

Community Involvement (Volunteerism). Students are required to participate in at least one community service learning/volunteer activity quarterly.

Job Shadowing. Students are exposed to different career fields through day-long job shadowing opportunities at various Sarasota companies. Job shadowing opportunities occur during non-school days; and are at Achievers or company request.

College Tour. Each year the Achievers program sponsors college visits. The goal of the college visits is to expose teens to various options for higher education by providing them with hands-on experience.  College tour details will be distributed at a later date. To participate, students must attend at least 80% of Achievers activities.

College Scholarships. Each year, through our Foundation its donors, award scholarships to seniors pursuing a college education or technical career. Scholarships are renewable as long as the recipient remains in good standing, volunteers with the program and re-applies.

OBJECTIVES OF THE ACHIEVERS PROGRAM

The Achievers Program is a leadership development program that has eight objectives:

• Provide Adult Achievers (role models) whose success and knowledge will inspire teens to set and reach goals
• Enrich the lives of students and their parents through emphasizing excellence
• Help youth develop individual talents, a positive sense of self and leadership ability
• Motivate participants to raise academic performance, succeed in school and gain marketable skills
• Expose students to diverse career options
• Create channels for local businesses to be involved in the community
• Involve parents in educational programs and   communications. Parents are encouraged to attend all sessions. Workshops for parents are held during the Career Summit.
• Involve Achiever Alumni to work with Achievers and to Give back to the program.