2021 Recipients

Future Focused Education

Future Focused Education’s (FFE) creates healthier and more prosperous communities by advancing the best education for the students who need it most. FFE supports the Leadership Schools Network (four Albuquerque high schools reengaging off-track students with extensive support) and the X3 Internship Program (providing high schoolers work-based learning experiences alongside local industry mentors).

Funding will support an X3 Internship sub-program to support the social-emotional learning (SEL) and mental/behavioral health of Central New Mexican high school students who face challenges to graduation, with a focus on young parents. Goals include: Developing youths’ SEL and workforce skills, knowledge, and attitudes; Promoting youths’ basic stability (including financial stability), mental and behavioral health, and overall personal wellness; and preparing youth for school, internship, and career opportunities that create a continuum of positive educational trajectory.

Mandy’s Farm

Mandy’s Farm is a nonprofit organization that assists individuals with developmental disabilities in achieving their goals for living, learning, and working in the community. Funding will support the VAMOS Program, a youth development program through which AmeriCorps members provide services focused on job training and skill development for people with developmental disabilities in the Albuquerque metro area. Within the state of New Mexico, due to significant funding shortfalls, waiting lists for services, and resource gaps for young adults with disabilities who are transitioning from high school to adulthood, individuals with disabilities often go without the resources, accommodations, and opportunities they need to be successful. The goal of the VAMOS program is to assist young people with disabilities (students who are 14-22 years old) in receiving the training and support necessary in order to obtain their diploma or GED, pursue higher education, participate in national service, and/or obtain employment in the community at minimum wage or higher..