Success Institute creates path to education, leadership
A local organization provides programs, which help young people develop into leaders and professionals.
Success Institute was founded to assist young adults, who are at-risk and need support to fulfill their potential. Located in Rancho Cucamonga, the Success Institute serves young adults ages 18 to 24 throughout San Bernardino County. The organization links youths to leadership opportunities, community connections and education.
Success Institute partners with the Career Institute and other organizations that provide career services. When other organizations do not have the funding, Success Institute fills the gaps by serving young adults pursuing brighter futures. The organization connects these youths to mentors and to educational opportunities they may not believe they can achieve.
“We provide services to youth who are homeless, in foster care, suffering from mental health issues and financial insecurities,” the organization’s board President Becky Kemp said. “We believe it is the mission of organizations like ours to lift up this population and provide hope and a path to greatness.”
Success Institutes’ College Guidance and Success Program helps participants navigate a pathway to a college education. College and career specialists work with students to build the skills they need to succeed and assist them with creating a career path, enroll in college and apply for financial aid.
Success Institute listens to the needs of those it serves, addressing challenges that may not be obvious. Mentors noticed that the holidays were especially hard on parents in the career programs.
To address this, it launched Christmas Angels, which raises money to provide items to help adults continue with their career pursuits and toys for their children.
The organization partners with the Career Institute to offer scholarships to exceptional participants in the program. It hosts an annual event that honors the recipients as well as mentors, employers, and community members who support these youths and their participation. On average, the organization awards 20 scholarships a year.
This level of assistance can change the course of participants’ lives, according to Kemp. One of these success stories is Georgia Burckel, who was told she shouldn’t apply to college because of a learning disorder. After connecting with the Career Institute and receiving a scholarship from the Success Institute, Burckel pursued a master’s degree and is planning to become a guidance counselor at a community college so she can encourage others.
Success Institute’s Leadership Connection program, which is funded by the Willmas Foundation through the Inland Empire Community Foundation and private donations, helps shape the future of local young adults. Through connecting with community leaders, developing an understanding of career opportunities and developing skills, program participants receive encouragement to seek careers locally.
Success Institute is an all-volunteer organization and needs partners that can offer funding, support and opportunities for youths.
“Our supporters give, knowing we will pass these funds on to those very most in need, giving them the support to become the leaders they dream of being with support and mentoring from our programs,” Kemp said.
Anyone wishing to support these programs can visit the organization’s website. Success Institute welcomes new partners, who can introduce students to their profession, offer a tour of their operations and share their path to leadership.
“Support for these young adults will build a stronger community and connection to them staying and using their talents in the Inland Empire,” Kemp said, “Through our leadership programs young adults are taught to find a mentor and be a mentor.”
Information: 909-481-0270 or https://www.sinow.org/