Mission statement
Labor of Love Youth Development Foundation, Inc's. mission is to promote student interest and engagement in STEM education to increase the representation of Black/African Americans in STEM related careers, by providing access to quality enrichment programming.
Our Program AIM
Many Black/African American high school students lack access to educational and financial resources to prepare them to earn STEM degrees.
The aim of our program is to:
- Improve the likelihood of Black/African American students pursuing STEM majors and careers.
- Prevent economic barriers that prohibit Black/African American students’ entry into STEM majors and careers.
- Collaborate in partnership with like-minded organizations.
- Provide annual scholarships to deserving graduating high school seniors.
our Program Offerings
College Prep 101 Program
Program Target
The College Prep 101 Program is tailored to support high school students in grades 10-12 nationwide, spanning across all 50 states. This monthly "virtual" workshop series-based program aims to assist both students and parents in navigating the college admissions process, with a particular focus on helping first-generation college students overcome the overwhelming nature of this process, while also welcoming participation from students of all backgrounds.
The College Prep 101 Program is structured as a series of monthly "virtual" workshops, each focusing on a specific aspect of the college admissions process. The series is designed to progressively build upon the knowledge gained in previous sessions.
BENEFITS FOR PARTICIPANTS
Participants in the College Prep 101 Program will benefit from:
- Access to expert guidance and support from experienced college admissions advisors.
- Personalized assistance tailored to the individual needs of each student.
- Increased confidence and reduced stress throughout the college admissions process.
- Enhanced awareness of college and career options.
- Improved understanding of financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
- Equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in college.
WORKSHOP FORMAT
The virtual workshop series will be conducted using online video conferencing platforms, allowing students to participate from the comfort of their homes. Each monthly workshop will last approximately 1.5 hours on the 2nd Thursday of each month and will consist of presentations, interactive discussions, and hands-on activities.
Labor of Love stEM Scholars Program
Program Target
The Labor of Love STEM Scholars Program is a 6-week “virtual” workshop series is tailored to minority high school students nationwide, spanning across all 50 states, who are disproportionately underrepresented in STEM fields. Our aim is to address the lack of diversity in STEM by providing you with real-world challenges, and insights into various areas of STEM. Minimum GPA requirement: 3.0.
Throughout the series, you will have the opportunity to learn from industry professionals who have successfully navigated their careers in STEM. They will share their experiences, challenges, and valuable insights to inspire and empower you on your own journey. We encourage active participation, questions, and discussions to create an engaging and collaborative learning environment.
Benefits for Participants
By participating in this workshop series, high school students will:
- Gain exposure to STEM fields and careers.
- Understand the importance of diversity in STEM and its impact on innovation.
- Develop essential skills required for success in STEM.
- Explore the potential of STEM to address the racial wealth gap.
- Learn about ethical concerns in STEM and the responsible use of technology.
Workshop Format
The virtual workshop series will be conducted using online video conferencing platforms, allowing students to participate from the comfort of their homes. Each weekly workshop will last approximately 1.5 hours on the 2nd Thursday of each month and will consist of presentations, interactive discussions, and hands-on activities. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage with industry professionals.
Labor of Love Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Scholarship
Scholarship Target
The Labor of Love Diversity Equity & Inclusion Scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to Black/African American graduating high school seniors who plan on pursuing higher education at an accredited 4-year Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and intend to major in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics) related discipline. This scholarship program serves as a means to enhance college accessibility and affordability for deserving students.
SCHOLARSHIP Aim
By awarding The Labor of Love Diversity Equity & Inclusion Scholarship, the organization hopes to empower and support the next generation of Black/African American STEM professionals. This scholarship serves as a steppingstone towards achieving educational and career goals, while also helping to create a more inclusive and diverse STEM community.
2024 Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
It is important for applicants to showcase their academic achievements, passion for STEM, and dedication to promoting diversity within their field of study.
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Graduating High School Senior.
- Self-identify as Black/African American.
- Plan to enroll fulltime at an accredited 4-year HBCU.
- Plan to major in a STEM related discipline.
- Have a minimum unweighted grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Attends a Richmond or Columbia County, Georgia, High School.