The Heart of Literacy: How CFSN Mentors Transform Detroit and Pontiac Communities
By: Heidi Miller, Senior Director of Learning
In the heart of Detroit and Pontiac, something powerful is happening. Center for Success Network mentors are connecting virtually and in person with students in homes and our hubs to change the trajectory of students' lives—one session at a time.
At CFSN, our mission is to unite the community with literacy to empower students in their educational journey. This mission comes to life through the dedication of our mentors! Their impact extends beyond the reading and literacy activities in their 1-1 sessions - they become mentors, role models, and champions for the students they support.
Building Confidence Through Literacy
Many students in historically marginalized communities face academic challenges, particularly in reading. Literacy is much more than just reading. It’s writing, listening, speaking and comprehension. Even more than that, literacy is the foundation for confidence, self-expression, and future opportunities. Our 1-1 programming is founded on evidence-based, culturally sustaining practices and materials. We provide literacy training, equity training, ongoing support, and consistent space to connect. CFSN mentors provide individualized support that helps students develop essential reading skills in the process. With patience and encouragement, mentors help children tackle literacy challenges, transforming struggle into success.
Creating Meaningful Connections
What makes our organization unique is our focus on uniting community with literacy. While literacy is our passion, the rapport and relationship between mentor and mentee is what truly drives success. Many of our mentors build lasting bonds with the children they mentor, offering consistent encouragement and guidance. CFSN students have consistent voice and choice during their sessions, and are able to co-pilot the session alongside their mentor. Our students have support through their families, teachers, and friends, but adding in one more supportive individual truly helps to create the village our students deserve.
Strengthening Communities One Student at a Time
The ripple effect of volunteerism at CFSN extends beyond individual students. As literacy rates improve, so do long-term outcomes for entire communities. Students who develop strong reading skills are more likely to succeed in school, graduate, and contribute positively to their communities. By investing their time and energy, CFSN mentors play a direct role in breaking cycles of educational inequities and paving the way for a brighter tomorrow.
Join the Movement
The work of CFSN mentors is invaluable, but there is always room for more helping hands! Whether you’re a teacher, a college student, a retiree, or someone who simply believes in the power of literacy, your support can make a difference. By giving just a little of your time, you can help support and celebrate a student —and in turn, strengthen the Detroit and Pontiac communities for generations to come.
At CFSN, literacy is more than reading—it’s a pathway to empowerment. And at the heart of this journey are the mentors who make it all possible!
Are you ready to be a part of something bigger? Join us today and help turn the page toward a brighter future. Visit the Volunteer tab for more info!