Project Ready is a pillar educational program of the National Urban League designed to prepare African Americans and other historically underserved high school youth for college and careers.
PROJECT READY PARTNER
Project Ready is a high school retention and college access program designed to help make our Hampton Roads high school students more competitive in the global marketplace. The program builds rewarding relationships, explores college and career pathways, teaches work and school readiness, instills cultural awareness and provides financial education to prepare students for college, career and life. Our children are tomorrow’s leaders, and each deserves all the necessary tools to thrive and succeed.
PROJECT READY CO-CHAIRS
Co-stars of the NBC sitcom “A Different World,” Darryl M. Bell and Charnele Brown serve as Co-Chairs to lend their voices and talents to the Urban League of Hampton Roads inaugural 2021-2022 Project Ready Program.
2022 YOUTH SUMMIT
Our students attended the National Urban League’s, 2022 National Youth Summit at the University of Maryland, College Park. The Summit is the culminating event for Project Ready sites from across the nation! Check out these highlights.
PROJECT READY
Find out more about the Project Ready program and hear from Co-Chairs Darryl Bell and Charnele Brown from NBC’s A Different World.
What We Do
Over $30k in Scholarships Distributed
Local Historical Tours
Offering guided tours of significant local landmarks, these experiences educate students about the rich history of their community and its impact on today’s world.
Behind the Business Tours
Providing a behind-the-scenes look at local businesses, giving students insight into various industries, career opportunities, and the skills required for success.
In-School/After-School Programming
Delivering structured programming both during and after school, designed to enhance academic achievement, social skills, and overall student development.
Out of School Learning Experiences
Engaging students in enriching educational opportunities beyond the classroom, fostering personal growth and a love for learning.
Leadership Development
Equipping young people with essential leadership skills through targeted workshops and experiences, helping them grow into confident, capable leaders.
College Tours
Introducing students to higher education through organized visits to colleges and universities, empowering them to envision and plan for their academic futures.
Site Locations
Bayside High School (Virginia Beach)
Green Run High School (Virginia Beach)
Hampton High School (Hampton)
Heritage High School (Newport News)
King’s Fork High School (Suffolk)
Next Step to Success – After School Program (Norfolk)
Tallwood High School (Virginia Beach)
Dollar Tree|Family Dollar are proud to support the educational aspirations of Project Ready participants through a scholarship program. This opportunity is designed to help students pursuing higher education achieve their academic goals. Eligible participants can apply for financial assistance to support their college or vocational studies, empowering them to excel in school and build successful futures. The scholarship is part of a broader commitment to education and youth development, fostering opportunities for growth and achievement in underserved communities. The scholarship recipients will be honored at the Project Ready Scholarship Ceremony held at the Dollar Tree|Family Dollar Headquarters in Chesapeake, Virginia.
READY FOR SUCCESS
Project Ready by the Numbers:
- Over $300,000 invested in the program courtesy of funding support from Hampton Roads Community Foundation and Truist Bank
- Monthly virtual educational and skill-building sessions
- Students enrolled from local schools
- Summer internship opportunities at Hampton Roads area businesses
- 25 community partners and growing
Expected Outcomes:
- Minority youth inspired for success in college, career, and life.
- Increased self-esteem, improved academic performance, strengthened knowledge of cultural history, and gainful employment.
- Strong community partnerships to ensure long-term program and student success.
Want to find out more?
Have questions? Contact the Project Ready team today.
Youth Leadership Summit
The National Urban League offers Project Ready participants an incredible opportunity to attend the National Youth Leadership Summit.
This five-day, all-expenses-paid experience takes place at a university, where students engage in leadership workshops, networking opportunities, and immersive college life experiences. Participants will develop essential leadership skills, build valuable connections, and gain insight into life on a college campus—all while having fun! This summit is a unique chance for youth to grow, learn, and prepare for their future as leaders in their communities.
2022 – Washington DC/ University of Maryland – College Park
2023 – Houston, Texas/Rice University
2024 – New Orleans, Louisiana/Xaiver University of Louisiana
2025 – Cleveland, Ohio/TBD
Our children are tomorrow’s leaders, and deserve all the necessary tools to thrive and succeed.
Let's collaborate!
For more information or to get involved with Project Ready at the Urban League of Hampton Roads, please reach out to our Education & Youth Development Program Manager, Masai Kofa-Wilson.