We are community advocates, school supporters, and educational partners dedicated to addressing the academic and emotional needs of our youth. We believe that when students take command of their social and academic learning experiences, they become engaged participants in their own success. We acknowledge gender as a powerful influence in education and self-conception, and we use gender as a lens in our work to support students. Our tutors are trained to give guided assistance and strategies that are transferable beyond the completion of an assignment. Although we assist students in reaching their academic goals, we also work with students to help develop their self-esteem, achievement motivation, and an overall sense of self. Most adolescents who have overcome adversity have at least one influential, supportive relationship with a non-parent or mentor. It is with the support of these caring mentors that students attain higher grades, establish goals and aspirations, and increase their self-esteem.