Ronald’s Story
FROM DISENGAGED TO DETERMINED
See how Peer Power transforms young lives in Memphis
RONALD’S STORY
A First-Generation American’s Struggle
Ronald, a Hispanic first-generation American, was on the verge of becoming another statistic. Disengaged from school and workforce programs, he was at risk of joining the 40.4% of Latino males who don’t complete high school in Memphis.
“Peer Power helped my mental health with therapy, manage my money and helped me grow as a person.”
— Ronald
With no clear direction and limited support at home, Ronald’s potential was at risk of being lost—a story all too common in our community.
The Turning Point
Everything changed when Peer Power Success Coaches took the time to truly understand Ronald. Through meaningful conversations, they discovered his interest in becoming an electrician—a passion no one had taken the time to uncover before.
“The moment we discovered Ronald’s interest in electrical work, we knew what path to put him on.”
— Marlon Ross, Workforce Development Director
This discovery wasn’t just about finding a career path—it was about connecting education to purpose, showing Ronald that his future was worth investing in.
Transformation Through Support
With targeted support from Peer Power, Ronald began preparing for the electrician apprenticeship exam. The program provided him with specialized tutoring, practical resources, and consistent encouragement.
His progress was remarkable. Not only did he pass the ACT workers test, but he also improved his overall academic performance, developing study skills that will serve him throughout his career.
“Peer Power has helped me stay committed and see things through.”
— Ronald
Today, Ronald is on track to become a licensed electrician—a future that once seemed impossible is now within reach.
The Crisis in Memphis
Youth Violence
Memphis has seen a troubling rise in youth violence, including school shootings and community tragedies. Without intervention, more young people will be lost to this cycle.
Lack of Safe Alternatives
During summer months and after school hours, many Memphis youth lack safe, structured environments. This leaves them vulnerable to negative influences and lost opportunities.
Educational Gaps
40.4% of Latino males and similar percentages of other minority groups don’t complete high school in Memphis, creating cycles of poverty that span generations.
Our Impact So Far
850+
Middle and high school students supported annually
87%
Increase in academic engagement among program participants
92%
Of students report feeling more confident about their future
Your Impact
Every dollar you contribute directly supports students like Ronald, providing them with the guidance, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive.
$28
Supports one student for one day
- One-on-one mentoring session
- Academic support materials
- Nutritious meal during program
$110
Supports one student for one week
- Five days of comprehensive support
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Career exploration activities
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Weekly progress assessment
$850
Full summer support for one student
- Complete summer program access
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Specialized career preparation
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College/career readiness workshops
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Field trips and enrichment activities
$1000
Provides food for a day
- Nutritious meals for all students
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Healthy snacks throughout the day
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Support for food-insecure students
$3,500
Covers a Level 5 teacher stipend
- Expert instruction from top educators
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Specialized curriculum development
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Mentorship for Success Coaches
Custom
Click Below to select an amount
Help Students Like Ronald Thrive
Your donation today will directly impact the lives of students in Memphis, providing them with the support, resources, and opportunities they need to build a brighter future.
Stories of Impact
“It is a life-changer and a family-changer for those who engage in it.”
Governor Bill Lee
” I am the first in my family to go to college so I never had any guidance in school. Peer Power helped me get into an internship with Aztec Masonry. Now I have been working there for the whole summer”
Lilian Cano, College Student
“Because of Peer Power, I am going to be something bigger than I expected to be.”
Nijohn, Workforce Cohort
