Saigh Foundation Awards $10K Grant
The Saigh Foundation Awards $10K Grant to Access Academies
ST. LOUIS, MO. November 5, 2013 –The Saigh Foundation has awarded Access Academies a one-year, $10,000 grant in endorsement of Access’ Graduate Support Program, which provides counsel and resources for NativityMiguel graduates as they pursue their secondary and post-secondary educational and career aspirations.
The Saigh Foundation, founded by former St. Louis Cardinals owner, Fred M. Saigh, assists St. Louis–area organizations that benefit children and youth, primarily in the areas of education and health care. The Foundation is particularly interested in stimulating the development of new ventures, as well as in supporting organizations that feature innovative approaches or programs.Â
“We would like to thank the Saigh Foundation for their support, and will use this grant to enhance the Academy’s seven-year commitment to our NativityMiguel graduates through the work of our Graduate Support Specialists,” said Blake Youde, Executive Director of Access Academies.
Access Academies provides a unique college preparatory education for economically and/or socially disadvantaged students in under-represented neighborhoods in the city of St. Louis through the NativityMiguel Model of Education program, which:
- Extends the school day and school year from 6-8th grade to provide additional academic support. This includes a robust academic curriculum, homework assistance, service projects, and enrichment.
- Encourages family involvement to further support the physical, social, emotional, and academic well-being of each student.
- Eases the transition into high school and college through the Graduate Support Program.
Access Academies’ Graduate Support Specialists visit NativityMiguel graduates at area college-preparatory high schools quarterly for two purposes: first, to interact and support students in their current academic environments; and secondly, to encourage college and career planning. This includes, but not limited to, tutoring, mentoring, academic scholarships, and monitoring each student’s individual academic growth and achievement.
Since the establishment of Access Academies in 2005, more than 567 students have benefited from its services.
For more information regarding this release, please contact Julie Linder, Public Relations for Access Academies, by calling (573) 268-0639.
For a printable pdf of this release, please click here. Â
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