Embracing Collaboration: A-SOL's Commitment to Learning from Partners

At A-SOL, our commitment to continuous growth and the pursuit of best practices drives us to seek opportunities for learning and collaboration. Over the past month, our cofounders, Lorna Reddicks and Austin Bowyer, embarked on visits to two remarkable after-school programs: HOPE Farm and The Cove Waco. These visits proved to be transformative experiences, allowing us to engage with organizational leaders, gain valuable insights, and foster a stronger foundation for our future initiatives.

Lorna and Austin's visit to HOPE Farm provided an invaluable opportunity to observe and interact with a highly regarded after-school program. They were able to engage with the leaders of HOPE Farm, a long-term leadership development program that guides at-risk boys, without the benefit of a positive male role model in their homes, from the time they are 5-7 years old until high school graduation and beyond. Through these conversations, A-SOL gained a deeper understanding of the program's success in fostering educational development, mentorship, and community engagement.

The Cove, another enduring after-school program, offered Lorna and Austin an inspiring glimpse into the power of community collaboration. The Cove is a Waco-based nonprofit designed to provide a safe space for youth experiencing homelessness to access the resources they need to thrive. The experiences shared by The Cove Executive Director,

(pictured above), will undoubtedly contribute to A-SOL's expansion and impact in the community for years to come.

The information and advice obtained from HOPE Farm and The Cove have already begun shaping A-SOL's future initiatives. By incorporating the best practices and lessons learned from these esteemed organizations, we are enhancing our ability to provide high-quality after-school opportunities that empower and inspire the youth in our community. We want to extend our deepest gratitude to the leaders of both organizations for their transparency, generosity, and willingness to share their time. Together, we can make a lasting difference in our community.