What makes an inner-city student an Against the Grain Scholar?:

Against the Grain Scholars are exceptionally proactive inner-city students who choose to focus on their education instead of the adverse societal norms and circumstances that surround them (poverty, crime, violence, educational apathy, illegitimacy, hopelessness, etc.).

More specifically, ATGScholars have excellent school attendance records, work their hardest, participate in class, and consistently complete their homework assignments. They choose to follow the directions and rules of the classroom and school without resistance or defiance. They also choose to be respectful to all of their teachers, the staff, fellow classmates, and their siblings. In addition, they are polite, courteous, and exhibit exceptionally high-quality character.

Our Purpose: Our program is designed to give Against the Grain Scholars (ATGScholars) the recognition they deserve, positively reinforce their hard work and high-quality character, build upon their tremendous foundations, and show them the difference they can make in the lives of others!

Our Mission: Focused on the long-term success of the ATGScholars as well as the long-term development of the community, it is our mission to provide and facilitate mentoring through unique volunteer opportunities, from eighth grade through high school…and beyond!

Our Hope: It is our hope that the ATGScholars will continue on their paths as the true leaders, heroes, and positive role models of their communities.

Our Dream: It is our dream that the ATGScholars will inspire a future generation of inner-city students in the same way that they inspire us every day!