Austin Aspires:
Cradle to Career Programming
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"Sam" joined the Aspiring Leaders of Tomorrow (ALOT) program during middle school, where he first connected with ALOT Navigator Jesus and began building a meaningful relationship with the program. When he enrolled in ALOT, "Sam's" attendance and academics were struggling. Additionally, his family would often rely on him to miss school to provide care to a younger sibling. As he transitioned to high school, "Sam" continued to rely on Jesus and other navigators for support in academics, social-emotional well-being, and leadership development. Additionally, Aspires staff member Jwokamer was able to work with the family regarding the importance of school attendance and getting support for the younger siblings.
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In the winter of 2022, "Sam" came up with the idea to host a basketball tournament for his peers. With the support of an Aspires navigator and school administration, he successfully organized the event, including nearly 30 APS alumni and current students, all basketball players. The tournament featured exciting competitions, such as a 3-point and dunk contest.
In the spring of 2022, "Sam" joined the Aspires' staff as a Boys of Tomorrow (BOT) Club leader. He quickly became a "fan favorite" of the participants. Over the next two summers, he strengthened his leadership abilities as a mentor to younger boys, honing his skills and making a lasting impact in the community.
Throughout high school, "Sam" further developed his leadership skills as a basketball manager and served as a representative for Austin on the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) Student Advisory and Leadership Team. He was also crowned Homecoming King, further highlighting his influence and commitment to his peers.
"Sam" had a passion to lead, but was unsure how to fully utilize his natural talents. Academic talents and other school behaviors would get in the way of his leadership talents shining through. When reflecting on how Austin Aspires supported him, "Sam" shared that the program has helped him build stronger connections within the community and provided numerous leadership opportunities.
"Sam" is now an AHS grad, gainfully employed and enrolled in college. He has a plan for what his future holds. "Austin Aspires helped me when others wouldn't. They saw something in me that I didn't see in myself at the time. Aspires is the best, man," said "Sam" in a recent conversation. He added that he knows he is not the only one. Aspires has helped others he knows overcome challenges, build resiliency, and achieve their goals as well.
In the spring of 2022, "Sam" joined the Aspires' staff as a Boys of Tomorrow (BOT) Club leader. He quickly became a "fan favorite" of the participants. Over the next two summers, he strengthened his leadership abilities as a mentor to younger boys, honing his skills and making a lasting impact in the community.
Throughout high school, "Sam" further developed his leadership skills as a basketball manager and served as a representative for Austin on the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) Student Advisory and Leadership Team. He was also crowned Homecoming King, further highlighting his influence and commitment to his peers.
"Sam" had a passion to lead, but was unsure how to fully utilize his natural talents. Academic talents and other school behaviors would get in the way of his leadership talents shining through. When reflecting on how Austin Aspires supported him, "Sam" shared that the program has helped him build stronger connections within the community and provided numerous leadership opportunities.
"Sam" is now an AHS grad, gainfully employed and enrolled in college. He has a plan for what his future holds. "Austin Aspires helped me when others wouldn't. They saw something in me that I didn't see in myself at the time. Aspires is the best, man," said "Sam" in a recent conversation. He added that he knows he is not the only one. Aspires has helped others he knows overcome challenges, build resiliency, and achieve their goals as well.
- Austin Aspires
