The Challenge Foundation

Challenge summer program:the Challenge summer program is held at st mary's academy for approximately six weeks. Students are rising 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th graders. The students must have financial need and have demonstrated academic success. The summer staff consists of teachers, co-teachers and year round Challenge Foundation staff members. Summer program classes are language arts, math and science. Enrichment activities include public speaking, scuba diving, swimming lessons, high ropes course, rafting, horseback riding, dance, sports and music. Breakfast, lunch and snacks are served. Transportation is provided.

Scholarships:the Challenge Foundation partners with college preparatory schools to award scholarships to qualified students from sixth through twelfth grades. To be eligible, families demonstrate financial need and students demonstrate year-round academic success and commitment. The program will impact approximately 160 students.

Tutoring, mentoring and advising:the Challenge Foundation Arizona matches students with a volunteer mentor who partners with The family and The staff to provide on-going support, encouragement and meaningful educational experiences. The mentor is a professional in our community who is trained to serve as a role model and team member in The scholars' educational journey. Tutoring is offered and accessed as needed at every level of The scholars' experience, from 6th grade through college, including act/sat prep. All of these supports are managed by a Challenge advisor on staff who helps students overcome obstacles in their personal and academic lives. Advisors attend teacher conferences, obtain computers, school supplies, athletic equipment, musical instruments and counsel them throughout The college and financial aid application process.