THROUGH EXPERIENCES, WE SHOW VULNERABLE STUDENTS THAT TOP COLLEGES ARE REAL OPTIONS.
Over the past decade, SMF has prepared vulnerable students for college admission and nurtured habits of mind that are essential for high achievement in diverse and complex learning communities. As a result, students who once had few college options are now offered admission and graduate from some of the most selective colleges and universities in the nation.
empowering youth for more than a decade
The Simmons Memorial Foundation (SMF) is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization that provides high quality educational support programs for students who are members of vulnerable or at-risk groups. Founded in 1996 to honor the lives of Cynthia Simmons and her son Nathaniel Simmons, SMF seeks to instill the same values of education and perseverance that each of them displayed in their daily lives.
our philosophy
Empowerment
Through working with students and their parents, SMF seeks to empower individuals to participate in shaping a better world for themselves and others. For SMF, empowerment has three steps:
- Validating Backgrounds and Experiences
- Developing a Critical Perspective
- Taking Action
SMF reinforces a process-based self-esteem that withstands external challenges giving students a better foundation to excel in different contexts. SMF encourages students to become aware of and excited about their own talents and interests.
Intellectual Honesty and Realism
SMF’s philosophy demands the interaction of intellectual honesty and realism. We give students the tools to navigate through a world where things are not always fair and the allocation of resources is not equitable. SMF does not stop with good intentions or simply distributing materials, but goes the extra mile by teaching students tangible (academic and non-academic) survival skills.
Volunteer Spirit
SMF thrives on the human capital of its volunteers and their range of experiences and suggestions to propel it forward. The diverse experiences of our mentors and their volunteerism make SMF a unique organization.
Culture of High Expectations
SMF requires students to recognize that their education is ultimately their responsibility. Success in college and their chosen profession demands this realization. This realization is not effortless, always comfortable, or optional-it is necessary. Through its programs, SMF challenges students to think critically, excel academically, create higher expectations for themselves and motivate other students in the process.
