SFA’s 2023 Recap

Dear Friends of Step Forward Academy,

As we close the chapter on 2023, Step Forward Academy (SFA) reflects on a year of remarkable achievements and transformative growth. Thank you so much for your continued support and encouragement. Because of you, we have so much to celebrate at Step Forward Academy!

Cohort Highlights:

• Winter Cohort 2023 saw a 100% completion rate, with standout “Allstars” Diana Moreno and Leonard Orea, excelling in their professional pursuits. Check out their testimonial videos below.
• Spring Cohort 2023 boasted a 100% completion rate, featuring success stories like Barbara Meinik’s diligence to earn a living wage and support her special needs son.
• Mentee Jen Pham also increased her wages as an Academic Advisor.
• Fall 2023 Cohort witnessed 100% completion, with Mentees Alec Jutila, Janela Perez, Micheal Dennie, and Sarah Reynolds securing jobs, thanks to resume coaching and LinkedIn support.

Diana’s Story

Leonardo’s Story

Mentee Impact:

With over 100 Mentees taking Career Assessment tests and a total of 63 alumni, success stories abound, including Donald Lemar, who started as a Mentee and is now serving as a Mentor. Fernando Arroyo, who was also a Mentee, now serves as SFA’s Veterans Outreach Director.

Amazing Achievements:

• Serving 26 Mentees, we provided free refurbished laptops, hosted three cohorts, and celebrated with over 24 Mentees, 8 Mentors, and 25 children as their parents completed our career development program.
• Over 32 gifts were distributed to Mentees’ families, and one-on-one coaching supported multiple Mentees in job searches and career planning.
• Strategic partnerships were forged with Santa Ana College and Experian, offering valuable educational resources and in-depth workshops.
• Successful fundraising through the Par 3 Shootout and engagement with Volunteer Match enriched our mentorship programs.

Looking Ahead:

As we step into the new year, SFA remains committed to empowering individuals through mentorship and coaching. As we wrap up 2023, we invite you to consider making a year-end donation to help us as we anticipate continued success stories and collaborations within our growing community of Mentors, Mentees, Coaches, and supporters like you in the new year. We know the best is yet to come!

With deepest gratitude,

Ryan  Wong