There are many nonprofit organizations in Bradenton and the surrounding area. Each one is doing incredible work to support our community by helping those less fortunate, promoting the arts, providing education, and more.
During our nonprofit spotlight series, we’ll highlight information about a different local nonprofit each week. This week, we were thrilled to chat with Take Stock in Children of Manatee County, Inc. to learn more about their mission and how we can help. Here’s what they had to say.
Can you tell us a little bit about your mission and how you help to support our community?
Our mission is to empower students in grades 6 through 12 to achieve academic and personal success through our College and Career Readiness program.
We prepare them for post-secondary education and foster excellence in all aspects of their personal and professional lives, ultimately enhancing the communities they live in and serve throughout Manatee County.
Our vision is to empower underserved students in Manatee County, ensuring they thrive academically and personally. Through education, mentoring, and scholarships, we break the cycle of poverty, fostering lifelong success and a brighter future for all.
Who do you serve and why?
At Take Stock in Children of Manatee County, our mission is to empower economically disadvantaged students in grades 6 through 12 to achieve academic and personal success.
We prepare them for post-secondary education and foster excellence in all aspects of their personal and professional lives, ultimately enhancing the communities they live in and serve throughout Manatee County. Established in 1996, we provide comprehensive educational support, including mentoring and scholarships, to students facing financial barriers.
Our vision is to ensure underserved students thrive academically and personally. Through education, mentoring, and scholarships, we aim to break the cycle of poverty, fostering lifelong success and a brighter future for all. Our diverse student population includes significant representation from African American, Multiracial, and Hispanic communities, with an average household income of $28,193, highlighting our commitment to inclusivity and economic diversity.
Geographically, our students come from various areas within Manatee County, such as Bradenton, Braden River, Lakewood Ranch, Cortez, Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach, Palmetto, Rubonia, Ellenton, Terra Ceia, Terra Ceia Island, Myakka City, Manasota, Oneco, Tallevast, and Trailer Estates. This wide geographic representation underscores our dedication to reaching students wherever they reside, fostering inclusivity and community engagement.
Our program is committed to supporting students from diverse ethnic backgrounds, including American Indian, Multiracial, White, Black, Asian, and other ethnicities. Historically, we have provided substantial support to Multiracial, White, Black, and Hispanic populations, enriching our program’s cultural diversity. Our holistic approach, which includes academic assistance, mentoring, technology access, and scholarships, empowers students to overcome obstacles and pursue higher education, reinforcing our belief that education is a key catalyst for positive change.
Can you describe a few of your key programs?
Take Stock in Children – Manatee offers a range of supportive programs and initiatives for students in grades 6-12. The college readiness program provides comprehensive support, mentorship, and resources to guide students through their educational journey, preparing them for higher education.
Mentoring Matters pairs students with mentors who offer personalized guidance, support, and encouragement, helping them navigate academic and personal challenges. The Device Match initiative ensures students have access to essential technological tools, bridging the digital divide.
Post-Secondary Scholarships offer 2-4 years of financial support for students who complete the program, recognizing academic achievements and alleviating financial barriers.
Additionally, contingent services like the FLPP Dorm/Housing Scholarship, Campus Dining Meal Plan, and Mental Health Access Initiative provide comprehensive support for students’ well-being, fostering academic and personal growth.
What’s the best way our community can help?
The best way the community can help is by signing up to be a volunteer mentor or making a donation. Your involvement can make a significant difference in the lives of economically disadvantaged students, providing them with the guidance and resources they need to succeed academically and personally. To sign up to be a volunteer mentor, visit https://bit.ly/TSICManateeMentors. To donate, visit https://bit.ly/DonateMain.
What else do you want us to know?
We are deeply committed to fostering educational and personal success for economically disadvantaged students in Manatee County. Our comprehensive programs, which include academic assistance, mentorship, technological support, and scholarships, are designed to break the cycle of poverty and create brighter futures.
Your support, whether through mentoring or donations, is invaluable in helping us achieve our mission and make a lasting impact on our community. Together, we can empower students to reach their full potential and contribute positively to society.
To learn more about Take Stock in Children – Manatee, visit TakeStockinMantee.org and follow us on Facebook!
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