Evona

Problem Statement

Most children in underprivileged settings do not perform at par for their grade level, especially in reading and math.

Parents do not have access to objective diagnostic assessments of their children’s performance and preparedness, so they may be unaware of problems that develop.

By the time any educational lapse is discovered, it is usually too late to intervene. The under-performing child who cannot compete with peers has become discouraged and lost self-confidence, and lacks the skills to pursue higher education or a satisfying career path.

Proposed Solution

Education Volunteers Network of America (EVONA) is a non-profit organization that provides parents with free diagnostic assessment of children’s academic performance early in the educational process.

Based on this assessment, EVONA professionals can identify children at risk for educational deficits, and suggest interventions to address problems in specific academic areas.

EVONA professionals can then provide one-on-one tutorial and mentoring support to enhance each child’s performance and competitive preparedness.

Expected Outcome

Offering educational activities steers children toward more positive and productive life choices, increases their self-esteem, and demonstrates that they have the support of their community.

As more children in the community go on to higher education and achieve fulfilling careers, this completes a positive feedback loop, and increases the socio-economic potential of underprivileged areas.

Evona

Our Organization

EVONA was founded by professionals and educators with a stake in the Detroit community; our Executive Director, Board Members, staff and volunteers all live, work, and raise their families in the Detroit metropolitan area, and deal with the challenges described in this proposal every day. While we come from different walks of life, we are unified by our commitment to creating positive change in the lives of our local youth.

Since its establishment in 2003, EVONA has served more than 200 students, many of whom have completed their high school education and gone on to engage in productive employment. We have enabled more than 50 students to take part in mentorship programs with working professionals in the local area, who offer academic support and guidance as well as positive modeling for future careers. In order to expand the reach of our mission, we have established collaborations between schools, educators and parents to help local students achieve their full academic potential. Every student is equally important to us, and we adhere to a strict policy of non-discrimination.

All of the programs offered by EVONA are overseen by the Executive Director and administered by our well-trained and experienced staff members, whose strong professional backgrounds are matched by their passion for helping young people strive for academic success and career fulfillment.