Natasha's Journey Forward Mentoring Fundraiser

In the past 10 years of serving the Oak Cliff neighborhood in Southern Dallas, Journey Forward Mentoring (previously Leadership Forward) has connected hundreds of high school students to volunteer mentors who serve as resources, confidants, and models for students looking to realize their potential. Through active mentor engagement and with access to post-secondary planning resources, we've seen lasting relationships flourish and students reach a level of academic performance and professional/post-secondary education readiness they didn't previously think was possible.

Students participating in Journey Forward Mentoring are given unique mentorship and skill building opportunities that aren't always available to them in school or at home. The majority of our students are students of color and from low-income households in Dallas, most of whom will be the first generation in their family to pursue higher education. Due to the financial limitations of the families of the students served, the organization relies heavily on outside support to facilitate access to academic planning resources and connections with mentors that introduce them to concepts, guidance, and ultimately educational and professional opportunities that may otherwise not be a part of their experience.

Over the last 2+ years, I have had the pleasure of working with Journey Forward Mentoring. In addition to serving on the Board, I have also had the honor of being a mentor to a bright, energetic, and multi-talented high school student and am excited to play a role in such an impactful organization.