My name is Jose and I am a 2016 graduate of Champions For Learning’s Take Stock In Children scholarship and mentoring program. While attending Florida SouthWestern State College full time, I’ve also worked for a real estate technology firm for the past two years. This April, I graduated from FSW with my Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree in Supervision and Management. I’ve also recently purchased a home in Naples and have just accepted a promotion at my firm, making me Associate Regional Manager.
I grew up in a family where our financial situation meant that college wasn’t going to be an option without a scholarship. Not only that, but I was preparing to be a first-generation college student, so navigating my future and applying for college just wasn’t guidance that my parents were able to provide. Champions For Learning provided the resources, knowledge, and accountability I needed during high school that has ultimately led to my success today.
For me, the key component of the Champions For Learning program was the mentoring aspect. There was a time during high school that I went through a rough patch. There were challenges within my family and I didn’t know quite how to handle them. My mentor served as a rock during that time, he met me at school every week for lunch and we really bonded. That was a pivotal moment for me, and I truly believe that the stability that my mentor was able to provide led to me making it through.
It’s amazing to me how many community members are willing to give back, people who truly care. The Champions For Learning mentors give not just days or months, but years of their lives to be mentors for students in Collier County. I feel like I was given this amazing opportunity by Champions For Learning, and that those experiences have led to who I am today.
Join In.
Your gift to Champions For Learning inspires our community to continue to work together. No gift is too small; your gift can be combined with others to support life-changing learning experiences. Text to Give is easy, simply text “Champs21” to 44-321.