Leading with our mission, vision and values

This past month there have been an unprecedented number of Trump administration executive orders that are impacting countless people, communities and organizations throughout our country. During this time, we have been receiving numerous questions about how our work with young people might be affected by these challenges.

While it is still too early to know how shifts to funding and changes to our national and local education and work readiness landscapes will impact us more immediately or in the long term, here is what we do know:

• We know that Achieve will continue to put our young people first.
• We know that Achieve will stay true to our mission of inspiring Minneapolis and Saint Paul students for careers, college and life.
• We know that our equity-focused work will remain grounded in our vision that all young people have full and equitable access to postsecondary education and career opportunities, creating a more just and vibrant community.
• We know that Achieve will continue to provide best-in-class career and college readiness services to as many young people as possible as they create their own unique plans for meaningful, life-sustaining careers and financial independence.
• We know that our work will continue to be anchored in the organizational values we hold dear: anti-racist, equity-driven, youth-centered, dedication to career and college readiness, effective strategic partnerships, strong stewardship and a great workplace culture.
• And we know that strong community support for our young people is more important than ever before.  

I want to assure you that Achieve’s school-based services in 27 Minneapolis and Saint Paul public high schools remain available to each and every student for personalized support in exploring all postsecondary pathways. In addition, the Step Up team is hard at work right now preparing to train and match Minneapolis youth with hundreds of paid summer internships with Twin Cities employers. 

During these difficult times, we invite you to begin or increase your engagement with Achieve as a financial donor, Step Up employer, career event volunteer or community partner. We are counting on your support to ensure that we can continue to create a stronger future for our students, our families and our entire community. 

We are so thankful for your partnership and your vital investments in our young people, our community’s future leaders.  

With hope and gratitude,

Danielle Grant
President and CEO, Achieve Twin Cities