Grant Request A Ray of Hope on Earth

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form


Organization Name: A Ray of Hope on Earth
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 200 W. Madison St, Suite 300
City: Chicago
State: IL
Postal Code: 60606
Main Phone: 8556544673
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://arayofhopeonearth.org/
Employer ID Number: 26-3906476
Organization Tax Status: 501 (c) (3)

Proposal Information


Today’s Date: 3/21/2024
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: The Teen Train College Bound Program
Project Description:

The Teen Train College Bound Program targets the vibrant yet underserved youth residing in Chicago aspiring for higher education. This comprehensive initiative is designed to bridge the gap between ambition and achievement, recognizing that many talented and driven young individuals face systemic barriers to accessing college education. The program aims to dismantle these barriers through a multifaceted approach, providing holistic support to students from disadvantaged backgrounds. At the core of the Teen Train College Bound Program lies a robust academic support system, offering tutoring, study groups, and SAT/ACT preparation courses. Recognizing that academic prowess alone does not guarantee college success, the program extends its support to include mentorship opportunities. Participants are paired with college students and professionals from their desired field of study or career path, ensuring they receive guidance, encouragement, and real-world insights. This mentorship component is vital, fostering a sense of belonging and motivation and providing a tangible connection to their future aspirations.

Additionally, the program recognizes many students’ financial barriers and offers workshops on financial literacy, scholarship application assistance, and strategies for navigating the college financial aid process. These sessions aim to demystify the complexities of college funding, empowering students and their families to make informed decisions.

Its commitment to building a supportive community is integral to the Teen Train College Bound Program. Regular events and workshops unite students, mentors, and families, creating a network of encouragement and shared experiences. This community aspect ensures that students do not navigate their journey to college alone but are buoyed by a collective effort.

In essence, the Teen Train College Bound Program not only equips students with the tools needed for academic success but also nurtures their personal growth and resilience. By addressing the multifaceted challenges aspiring college students face, the program lays the foundation for a brighter, more inclusive future.

Total Project Budget: 10000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): We are awaiting potential funding from Aldi, Fifth Third Bank, and Nike.

Project Duration: March-December
Geographical Area Served: Chicago
Age Group To Be Served: 14-18

Contact Information


Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mr.
Contact First Name: Ray
Contact Last Name: McElroy
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 6302159353
Contact Email: ray@arayofhopeonearth.org