#USA #Boston #Youth Programs #American Student Assistance #Career Readiness

Significant Investment in Youth Career Readiness

American Student Assistance (ASA), a prominent national nonprofit organization committed to revolutionizing career education for young individuals, has recently announced a substantial grant of $8.48 million. The funding is directed to 13 nonprofit organizations dedicated to enhancing career readiness and opportunities for youth across seven states.

This initiative aims to dismantle barriers that often prevent young people from even considering numerous career paths. Julie Lammers, ASA's President and CEO, emphasized the necessity of exposure to a diverse range of careers, stating, "Far too many young people foreclose opportunities for themselves because they have not been exposed to the possibilities." Together with a network of aligned nonprofit partners, ASA is dedicated to expanding access to impactful career exploration, experimentation, and navigation experiences.

A Closer Look at the Grant Recipients

1. America Succeeds
This organization received a three-year grant of $1.5 million to strengthen its Pathsmith™ Durable Skills Framework. The initiative focuses on ensuring that learners acquire essential skills crucial for economic mobility, amidst the rising demand for durable skills in today's AI-driven workforce. Tim Taylor, co-founder of America Succeeds, acknowledged the vital role ASA plays in making these transformations possible.

2. Big Picture Learning
Also awarded $1.5 million over three years, Big Picture Learning will enhance its programs targeted at Native and underserved communities. The organization strives to deepen its impact through systems change and national thought leadership, stressing the importance of centering youth voices in education.

3. EdVestors
Another recipient, EdVestors, plans to improve student advising in middle grades with a similar grant of $1.5 million. This funding will enhance career-learning connections for students in Boston Public Schools, ensuring they can make informed choices about their high school pathways.

4. Jobs for America's Graduates (JAG)
Securing $1.5 million over three years, JAG aims to broaden its impact and innovate within its evidence-based model. The organization focuses on equipping young people with employability skills and creating a workforce ready for future challenges.

5. Black Women in Aviation
With a three-year grant of $300,000, this organization seeks to foster interest in aerospace careers among underrepresented youth through immersive technology such as drones and virtual reality. Founder Samantha Mitchell expressed gratitude for the crucial funding, which will enhance their aviation programs across key states.

Additional Noteworthy Recipients

Several other organizations received grants as part of this initiative, including Campus Without Walls, National Urban League, One Bead, and Codman Square Health Center, all of which are keen on promoting career exploration and readiness within their respective areas.

• - Campus Without Walls: Received $300,000 to virtually connect students with career pathways.
• - National Urban League: Awarded $300,000 to enhance their Project Ready program, focusing on career exploration.
• - One Bead: With a $300,000 grant, this organization focuses on helping middle school students navigate their educational paths and explore career options.
• - Codman Square Health Center: This organization aims to expose students to healthcare careers with a $300,000 grant.

ASA’s Vision for Career Readiness

ASA’s overarching mission is to foster knowledgeable and confident young individuals prepared to navigate their futures. Their approach includes providing free digital resources for students as well as supporting educational institutions through advocacy, research, and financial investment. By offering platforms like Futurescape® and EvolveMe®, ASA ensures that middle and high school students can explore their interests and strengths, which will aid them in making informed career decisions.

As these grants roll out, ASA affirms its commitment to shaping a generation of young people equipped to meet the demands of a complex and evolving job landscape. For more information about ASA's initiatives and programs, visit www.asa.org/about-asa.