Achieve Miami receives $1 million grant from Helios Education Foundation to expand educational equity initiatives
The funds will continue to advance the nonprofit’s comprehensive college readiness programs, while illuminating pathways for high school students in Miami-Dade County
MIAMI - Achieve Miami, a nonprofit dedicated to equalizing educational opportunities for students throughout Miami-Dade County, proudly announces the renewed commitment of a three-year, $1 million grant from Helios Education Foundation. At the forefront of this initiative is Achieve Miami's commitment to providing year-round, comprehensive college readiness programming, supporting its ‘Achieve Scholars’ through the intricate college application process.
Achieve Miami's ‘Achieve Scholars’ program, a cornerstone of the organization's initiatives, stands as a testament to the impact of comprehensive college readiness programming. Through year-round workshops, personalized mentorship, and essential resources, the program not only navigates the intricate college application process successfully but also cultivates the skills and confidence needed to thrive in higher education. Notably, 97% of Achieve Scholars have gained acceptance into universities, with 79% securing life-changing scholarships.
"The renewed grant enables Achieve Miami to bolster its mission in empowering Achieve Scholars and bridging educational disparities," stated Achieve Miami Founder Leslie Miller Saiontz. "As our comprehensive college readiness programs continue to illuminate pathways for high school students, this grant strengthens our resolve to foster a connected, equitable, and thriving community for all."
In 2020, the Helios Education Foundation awarded Achieve Miami a groundbreaking $1 million grant, propelling the expansion of college readiness programming from three to ten schools and enhancing the organization's evaluation capacity. Now, with the renewed grant spanning another three years, Achieve Miami is advancing its initiatives aimed at bridging disparities, providing meaningful educational experiences, and closing opportunity gaps for students throughout Miami-Dade.
“Helios Education Foundation is proud to continue our partnership with Achieve Miami, supporting their innovative approach to preparing Miami-Dade County students for success at the postsecondary level,” said Helios President and CEO Paul J. Luna. “Our collaboration is more than a grant; it's a shared vision to ensure that every high school student has the support to turn their college aspirations into reality.
Additionally, the renewed grant will provide the necessary resources for Achieve Miami to deepen its impact and enhance its internal evaluation, data collection, and analysis capabilities through a comprehensive three-year strategic plan, affirming its vision, mission, and goals.
About Achieve Miami
Since its founding in 2015, Achieve Miami has supported thousands of students, bolstered programming for 60+ local schools, and engaged thousands of volunteers. Achieve Miami is dedicated to fostering a transformational education ecosystem in Miami. Together with partners from the public and private sector, Achieve Miami designs and manages programs that bring together members from various parts of the community to extend learning opportunities for students, teachers, and community leaders. Learn more at www.achievemiami.org.