Ameer and Alisha personally experienced the overwhelming pressure and confusion of entering high school. They felt a lack of support and guidance in navigating the complex decisions around courses, extracurriculars, and college applications. Realizing that other students were likely facing similar challenges, they created Running Start to provide the support and clarity they wished they had.

Guiding Principles

At Running Start, the focus is on:

• Empowering students: Equipping students with the tools and knowledge to navigate the challenges of high school and college transitions.
• Personalized guidance: Providing tailored support through mentoring, coaching, and academic skills development.
• Creating confident learners: Building students' self-assurance and preparing them for success in their educational journey.

Impact and Growth

Since its inception in 2022, Running Start has positively impacted over 200 students. The program's impact grew significantly with the addition of 3 new Mentors in 2023, allowing the program to scale. Ameer and Alisha's dedication to creating equitable opportunities and empowering students has positioned Running Start as a valuable resource for the community. The program's continued growth reflects its commitment to guiding students toward a successful future. Running Start is committed to providing 80% of its mentoring sessions FREE to need-based students.