PROGRAMS
POWER UP
Pathways to opportunity with empowering relationships
WHY POWER Up? WHY NOW?
Youth disconnection leads to billions of dollars in annual losses due to diminished earnings, reduced productivity, and heightened social service demands. In terms of youth economic mobility, Philadelphia ranks lowest nationwide, which affects the future workforce and economic vitality. Around 33% of young individuals in Philadelphia are not engaged in either educational or career pathways. This disconnection rate far exceeds the national average of approximately 11.5%. The restricted economic mobility of young Philadelphians not only influences their personal futures but also undermines the community’s economic stability.
Without focused intervention, future generations will face increase disolation from opportunities.
Philadelphia‘s LOW Rank
Philadelphia ranks 50th on the list of cities with upward mobility, which significantly affects the opportunities available to its youth.
Economic Challenges
Over 70% of Philadelphia middle school students qualify for free or reduced lunch, highlighting the economic challenges faced by many families.
Negative Exposure
Exposure to violence, trauma, mental health challenges, and economic instability contribute significantly to youth disconnection in the city.
INNOVATIVE HOLISTIC SOLUTION
These challenges might seem daunting, but research and practice show that access to a positive, sustained mentor is the most powerful and beneficial way to change the trajectory of a young person’s life – no matter their circumstances.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence (BBBSI) introduces an innovative new program to support youth in igniting their full potential.
The program has successfully launched and is currently serving students at three schools in Philadelphia:
WITH YOUR INVESTMENT
INVESTING IN POWER Up IS
INVESTING IN PHILADELPHIA!
HOW IT WORKS
POWER Up is a mentoring initiative within schools that focuses on empowering students through:
- Boosting self-confidence
- Enhancing social-emotional abilities
- Crafting a personal vision for the future
- Encouraging thoughtful decision-making
- Fostering a strong sense of community
Unlike conventional mentoring programs, POWER Up is guided by professional, salaried mentors who are members of the BBBS Independence team. These mentors work full-time within partner schools, establishing safe and inclusive environments where students can consistently access support and direction.
ESTIMATED YOUTH SERVED
The program includes 1:1 and small group mentoring by trained, professional mentors who work embedded in the school, providing students the opportunity to be mentored duringthe school day. With increased funding we will be able to growour program and add a new grade each yearuntil youth 6-8ᵗʰ all have access to the program.
WHERE BBBSI IS CURRENTLY
Serving over 200 youth weekly
Results:
- Increased Engagement
- School Attendance
- Family Satisfaction
Significant partner interest from Camden, Chester, and Norristown
MEET KASH and MR. DA’SHEK
Kash values his sessions with mentor Mr. Da’Shek in the POWER Up program, arriving with different moods but finding comfort in the supportive atmosphere. Together, they set daily goals and track progress, resulting in improvements in Kash’s focus and persistence. He appreciates Mr. Da’Shek’s guidance on managing anger and patience, enjoys activities like chess and painting, and feels he is Mr. Da’Shek’s favorite.
Are you interested in touring a POWER UP site? Join us at one of our incredible locations: Barry Elementary, Feltonville School of Arts and Sciences, or Ben Franklin Elementary! Experience firsthand the exciting programs we offer. To schedule your visit, please contact us at [email protected]. We can’t wait to share our POWER UP journey with you!
To learn more about how you can support POWER UP, contact [email protected].