Minds Matter of Chicago is a not-for-profit organization with the mission to transform the lives of accomplished high school students from low-income families by broadening their dreams and preparing them for college success.

Minds Matter of Chicago is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization with the mission to transform the lives of accomplished high school students from low-income families by broadening their dreams and preparing them for college success. Our goal is to provide these high school sophomores, juniors and seniors with perspective on why attending college is important, SAT/ACT test preparation courses, assistance in navigating the financial aid process and support for their decision to make academic achievement a priority. Minds Matter was established in Chicago in April 2006, and in September 2011 will serve more than 45 students, most of whom would be among the first in their families and communities to attend a four-year college.

Our volunteer mentors are college educated, young professionals in the Chicago area. They meet with our students every Saturday from September through May, and spend time providing support and guidance outside of the weekend sessions through small group activities, phone conversations and regular email contact. Beyond the weekly mentoring sessions, the students attend writing and critical thinking seminars, complete vocabulary training, participate in a weekly current events program, go on field trips to local colleges and universities, and complete weekly ACT/SAT study sessions.

With the help of donors, our program gives students study materials and the chance to attend leading collegiate summer programs, which gives them early exposure to a variety of college environments. We are proud to say that 100% of the students who have completed the Minds Matter program have gone on to attend a four-year college and received financial aid.

http://www.mindsmatterchicago.org

• Jessica Cortez
• 312-256-3503
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