When Harris G. first joined Champions For Learning’s Take Stock in Children Program in eighth grade, he didn’t know what his future would hold. He wondered if his dreams were realistic for someone like him.
But this all changed when he was paired with his Champions For Learning volunteer mentor, Andrew Fogarty, who has been a profound role model for Harris during the past five years. Through his steadfast encouragement, one conversation and check-ins at a time, Andrew helped Harris set personal goals and overcome challenges. “Because of his consistency, he taught me one of the most powerful lessons I’ve ever learned: to believe that I’m worth showing up for,” said Harris.
By being involved in Champions For Learning’s Student Programs, Harris learned that his success could not be accomplished alone but built through the people who walked beside him. Mentor meetings, workshop offerings, and hands-on lab sessions provided him with structured guidance and opportunities for growth. He discovered who he wants to become, both academically and personally – a future leader and community member who hopes to give back.
As a senior student, Harris now feels confident about his path forward after graduation. He has applied to and plans to attend Florida Gulf Coast University next fall, where he will study construction management with a minor in real estate. His future goal is to earn his contractors’ license and help develop and build projects that strengthen his local communities.
“This is the heart of Champions For Learning: it doesn’t just change individual lives; it changes families, communities, and society,” said Harris. “It brings hope to parents, inspiration to siblings, and strength to neighborhoods.”
Can we count on your support to bring further hope to students like Harris? Your investment in Champions For Learning enables us to serve as a catalyst for educational success and is the foundation for turning students’ dreams into realities.