As 2014 comes to a close, we first want to express our thankfulness for your support and for the dedication of our mentors and volunteers. Without it, we would not have been able to achieve these milestones:
- 400 students mentored, tutored, and developed as leaders throughout our seven centers
- Hosted our very first Serve-A-Thon in May that connected our students to their community through service
- Named ‘Nonprofit of the Year Rising Star’ by 2-1-1 Broward – displaying that although we are “young and small,” our “potential for growth and impact is high”
- Awarded ‘Citizens of the Year’ by Broward County Schools’ Social Workers for our dedication in building a support system for our students that goes far beyond academics
“FIREWALL CENTERS EXIST TO TRANSFORM STUDENTS INTO SERVANT LEADERS…”
We also want to reflect on the many students whose lives we have impacted this year, as they are the reason why Firewall exists. We are proud to share two of their stories with you, from their own perspective and from their mentors’.
These students have excellent academic performance, great behavior, and an overall positive attitude. This is why they were awarded the title of “Servant Leader” at their Centers.
ZION BENNETT
PLANTATION MIDDLE SCHOOL
“Firewall helped me to become a better student and better person because I’ve gotten to help people with things like their homework. It taught me to work hard with anything I want to achieve. Think Fire has helped me to become a servant leader by teaching me to have leadership, do what’s right, and be nice to other people. ‘Give Back’ means to give somebody your kindness, knowledge, and wisdom. Being a servant leader will help me by continuing to do the right thing and being nice to others, showing leadership, integrity, have a plan, take charge, and never quit.”
DAVID ANDUJAR
INDIAN RIDGE MIDDLE SCHOOL
“My first year as David’s mentor, I never heard David talk much and he kept to himself. This year, I noticed David is on top of everything. He is the first one to come up to me and tell me about his homework and he makes sure he gets everything done. Whenever he gets the chance, he will help us clean or assist another student with their homework. David is always happy to be at Firewall and puts a smile on our faces. Even though he is busy with homework, he makes sure to find the time to help others and is always trying his best at everything.”
-Annalyse Defrank, David’s mentor
Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Sincerely,
Firewall Centers
