Annual Impact Report
2025-2026
A Message from Our Executive Director
This year, our students pursued their goals amid real uncertainty. National conversations about belonging, opportunity, and access to resources felt personal for a lot of the young people we serve. They navigated challenges that went well beyond academics — and they showed up anyway.
For the nineteenth consecutive year, every graduating senior earned admission to a four-year college or university. Behind every acceptance letter is a student who chose courage over doubt. Behind every milestone is a mentor, volunteer, donor, or partner who showed up and believed.
Thank you for being part of this.
Jason Carter, Executive Director
At a Glance
329 total students served since 2006
263 alumni since 2006
100% of Class of 2026 seniors committed to a four-year college
100+ volunteers gave more than 3,000 hours this year
139 total college acceptances for the Class of 2026
$1.5M in scholarships awarded to the Class of 2026
82% of the Class of 2026 will be the first in their family to attend college
Students Across Three Classes, Real Gains Every Year
Every MMC student joins a structured three-year program: free SAT preparation starting sophomore year, a dedicated mentor pair for all three years, an Outward Bound wilderness expedition, and a fully funded college immersion program the summer after junior year.
This year, all three classes posted measurable SAT gains:
- Class of 2026: +235 points, from 970 to 1,206
- Class of 2027: +190 points, from 904 to 1,094
- Class of 2028: +58 points in year one alone, from 967 to 1,024
All three cohorts now score above the College Board's college-readiness benchmark.
A Mentor for Every Student
One in three young people grows up without a mentor outside their family, and for first-generation and low-income students, that guidance can change everything. Every MMC student is paired with two dedicated volunteer mentors -- a 2:1 ratio -- for the full three years of high school.
Become a Mentor or Tutor Weekly Saturday sessions, September through May. No prior teaching experience needed.
Give a Gift Donations fund the tutoring, mentoring, and summer programs at the core of the MMC program.
Spread the Word Know a driven high school student from a low-income background? We're happy to visit schools and host information sessions for students and parents. Reach out to us at info@mindsmatterchicago.org.
Join over 100+ volunteers