For our third challenge of the 2024-2025 program year, we partnered with the Center for Success Network (CFSN), a nonprofit that unites literacy and community to empower students in the journey of education. Teams of Fellows created recommendations and tangible work products to expand mentorship through different aspects of the mentorship process.  Fellows worked alongside Center for Success Network – Andrea Meyer, Heidi Miller, Ingrid White, Maddie Toro, Shanelle Mitchell, Tina Perkins and Adrianne Jackson – as well as engaged with stakeholders, including mentors, board members, caregivers and youth. Learn more about the project from the Fellow perspective! 

Fellows (L to R): Maya Morse, Kaden Yates, Claudia Flores, Nia Goins, Ayla Hoermann, Chanale Greer

We had the amazing opportunity to work with the Center for Success Network on our third Challenge Project. This organization works to increase literacy rates within the City of Detroit and Pontiac through their mentorship program. Young students are connected with a mentor, and throughout their sessions together, they work to build the students confidence and enjoyment of reading.

 The Mentor Program Engagement team was responsible for thinking of creative ways to keep the mentors engaged and involved within the program. Through the interview process, we learned that CFSN views mentors, “As creating a space to share and learn, but also to listen and advocate” (Heide Miller, Senior Director of Learning, 2025). The members of CFSN, including the mentors, staff, and caregivers, are truly passionate about increasing literacy and we could not be more proud to have worked with them. 

Get a glimpse of the project presentation where Fellows presented to our partners, their stakeholders, and host companies here.

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