2 students in classroom

What happens when students have champions?

A Dallas program pairs high school seniors with adult advocates to help them forge a path to success

The transition out of high school can be a critical time in a young person’s life, no matter what their next step might be. The Promise Champions Initiative in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area helps high school seniors transition beyond high school by matching them with adult advocates – referred to as Champions – who can help them navigate this pivotal year, achieve crucial benchmarks and plan for a successful postgraduate life. The Promise Champion Initiative is part of Dallas County Promise, a group of educational institutions, employers and local organizations all committed to assisting students with guidance and resources to support their next steps.  

Working in tandem with school staff and key members of each student’s life, Champions advise students throughout their senior year, making sure they are best prepared for college. Champions also help them connect to resources offered through Dallas County Promise. Resources can include free college tuition, career training and certifications. Local partner colleges have committed to prioritize policies and resources to help low-income and first-generation students succeed.

Bank of America supports the Promise Champion Initiative through its North Texas Employee Network, providing mentors to serve as Champions. This support is part of Bank of America’s $1.25 billion, five-year commitment to advance equality and economic opportunity.

Once trained and onboarded, Bank of America Champion volunteers are paired with a high school senior in the Dallas County school district. That mentorship connection provides encouragement and support to help students create an actionable post-graduation plan as they launch the next phase of their lives.

9/8/2023

Explore more

Man at desk with computer

Employment-ready graduates

Dallas College works with local businesses and four-year universities to help its students attain careers in growing local industries such as healthcare and information technology.
Man sitting at desk typing on laptop

Education that's transforming lives and communities

The Academy at Bank of America provides individuals with educational resources to enhance their skills, boost their confidence, grow their business or navigate the job market.
Neighborhood Builders Awardee Opal Lee

Meet a Neighborhood Builders® Advancing Social Equality Award winner

Fort Worth’s Opal Lee, known as the “grandmother of Juneteenth,” is a life-long racial justice advocate and educator. Upon successfully securing Juneteenth as a federal holiday, she is now spearheading the National Juneteenth Museum project.
showing element 1 of 3