Impact

Since 2007, three independent research teams studied our program and its impact. In each study, the results were the same. Teams from Saginaw Valley State University and the University of Michigan found that our Workforce Prep program has a statistically significant impact on students and deemed the program evidence-based.

In 2020, the University of Michigan Youth Policy Lab found that:

Our program has a greater impact on students who are not initially college-bound
Our program has an equitable impact for all students, regardless of race, economic level, or gender
Compared to non-Winning Futures students, students improved their attitude, self-efficacy, growth mindset, and perseverance

2021-22 Impact

Our impact during the 2021-22 school year was impressive especially because our students had not yet fully returned to school for their classes – the school year included a combination of in-school and at-home instruction. This data reflects students who were in our 2021-22 academic year program:

Students reported this about themselves:

66% improved their self-confidence
73% are better prepared to overcome obstacles
84% improved their knowledge of what it will take to achieve the education they want
85% better understand what it will take to achieve the career they want
80% better understand steps they can take to improve their grades
62% improved their understanding of budgeting
55% have a more positive attitude

While in the program, student did this:

98% set a short-term goal
93% improved a class grade through goal setting
91% completed one step towards their continuing education or career goal
85% changed their continuing education plans to better fit their career goal
83% learned a job readiness skill
87% created an education and career timeline or a plan for their future

Mentors reported this about their students:

93% have a better understanding of what it will take to achieve the education they want
91% have a better understanding of what it will take to achieve the career they want
80% have gained job readiness skills (time management, public speaking, etc.)
85% are better prepared to overcome future obstacles
79% are more self-reliant
78% are more motivated
71% have a more positive attitude toward school
81% improved their study/academic skills
85% improved their ability to work collaboratively on a team
85% are more able to express their feelings
81% have improved their communication skills
86% have a more positive view of their future
87% have increased confidence in themselves
84% have improved goal-setting skills
87% have better direction in their career path
85% now have the skills required to succeed at a career

Teachers reported this about their students:

87% are more prepared to overcome future obstacles
84% are more self-reliant
82% are more motivated
56% improved their classroom behavior (such as paying attention and not being disruptive)
80% take more initiative when things need to be done
80% have a more positive view of their future
85% increased confidence in themselves (self-esteem)
80% have more direction in their career path
82% are more likely to further their education in college or trade school

Local Impact

More than 50,000 students impacted since 1994
Over $2.1 million in scholarships and awards
356 local youth impacted in the 2021-22 school year
160 local businesspersons serving as volunteer career mentors impacted our students in the 2021-22 school year
Partners with seven schools across Metro Detroit
Topics include: character value development, self-exploration, goal setting, job readiness skills, overcoming obstacles, and strategic planning
Costs $3,500 per year to put one student through our program
Partners with more than 100 local businesses in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties

Learn more about our Workforce Prep program!

Learn about becoming a Workforce Prep career mentor!

About Us » Impact

Annual Outcomes Reports