Go-to-High-School, Go-to-College
The Go-to-High-School, Go-to-College program, launched in 1922, is one of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.'s longest-running national initiatives. Recognizing that educational attainment is the single most significant predictor of future economic success, this program aims to address the unique challenges faced by young African-American men in completing secondary and collegiate education. By equipping participants with critical knowledge, skills, and strategies, Alpha Brothers pave the way for these young men to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential.
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Through workshops, seminars, and one-on-one mentorship, the program provides young men with actionable tools for success, including time management, goal setting, and navigating the college admissions process. Participants also benefit from exposure to positive role models in Alpha Brothers, who exemplify the values of discipline, perseverance, and achievement.
At the Iota Mu Lambda Chapter, we uphold the legacy of the Go-to-High-School, Go-to-College program by implementing impactful initiatives in the Tacoma/Greater Pierce County area. At the Tacoma Alphas, we are deeply committed to nurturing and empowering tomorrow's leaders. Every second Wednesday of the month, you’ll find us actively engaged in our mentorship program at the Al Davies Boys & Girls Club. This signature program targets 4th through 8th-grade males and aims to transform the minds and social behaviors of participating youth through responsible, positive role-modeling in the underserved Tacoma Hilltop community. The program focuses on academic success and fostering positive self-esteem, helping participants envision themselves as productive citizens.
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The Al Davies Boys & Girls Club Mentoring Program incorporates workshops and influential guest speakers from the local community. By addressing the holistic needs of participants, it provides valuable insights into career progression while cultivating essential life skills. The program culminates each year with two significant events: sponsorship for participants to attend the annual South Puget Sound Boys & Girls Club “Legacy of Hope Program,” where their etiquette and social skills are assessed, and an end-of-year recognition ceremony to celebrate their accomplishments and present awards.
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Another cornerstone of our efforts is the Big Brothers Big Sisters Alpha Forum Mentoring Program. This speaker series is designed for young men aged 10-15 who identify as persons of color, although all are welcome to participate. Each monthly session offers a safe space to discuss current events, individual rights, school success, and career pathways with Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) leaders. Speakers include professionals from diverse fields such as community leadership, medicine, law, business, military, technology, and the arts, offering participants insights into various career options and life skills.
In its evolution from a traditional speaker series to a sustainable mentorship model, the program now incorporates a dedicated cadre of leaders and a curriculum emphasizing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). The curriculum introduces participants to real-world applications of STEM concepts, challenges them to problem-solve, and ignites their curiosity about STEM opportunities. These efforts, supported by the Golden Futures Foundation, have already mentored over 15 young participants, equipping them with the tools and inspiration to thrive.
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In addition to these structured programs, our chapter partners with local schools, community organizations, and educational institutions to host academic enrichment programs and career exploration sessions. These efforts focus on equipping students with the resources they need to excel academically, from SAT/ACT preparation to financial aid workshops. By connecting students with professionals in various fields, we inspire them to pursue diverse career paths and develop a vision for their futures.
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Through our dedication to this program, the Iota Mu Lambda Chapter ensures that young men in our community are empowered to envision and pursue a brighter future. Together, we are shaping the leaders of tomorrow, one success story at a time.