Pathways Forward
What we do
This program aims to equip students and families with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary for a successful transition into higher education (4-yr, 2-yr colleges and universities, trade and technical schools). Pathways Forward consists of the Pathways Forward Youth Program, after school programs and college tours.
Pathways Forward Youth Program 2024-2025
Helping students and families transition from 6th grade to 12th Grade
Pathways Forward is designed to provide comprehensive support and guidance to youth as they navigate the critical transition to post-graduation life. This program aims to equip cohorts of students and families with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary for a successful transition into higher education, career opportunities, or other post-graduation pathways.
Who Should Join?
- Students residing in Acadiana (6th - 12 grade students)
- Families/Students who want support navigating post high school graduation
- Families/Students who can commit to program through May 2025
Program Benefits:
- Monthly workshops
- Mentoring
- Guidance and support through post-high school graduation
- Opportunity to attend college tours, field trips, and other cool experiences
- Social Activities
- College Tours
- Pathways Forward Swag Bag
The Pathways Forward 2024-2025 Youth Program Registration has now ended! Please stay on the look out for next school year's registration.
Youth Potential Realized
Aiding families to seek greater opportunities
For six weeks, we will partner with Herod Elementary to offer an engaging afterschool program.
Each week, our program kicks off with snack and social time—a great chance for students to relax and connect with each other. At the start of the program, students worked with their success coach to set three personalized goals: one academic, one behavioral, and one social. These goals guide their progress as they move through the six-week journey.
In addition to working toward their goals, students dive into enriching activities that help them discover new interests and broaden their skills. One of the most exciting experiences so far has been learning about the world of aviation from the Aviation Academy of Louisiana! Thanks to our wonderful tour guide, Shelby, our students got an in-depth look at what it takes to become a pilot. Shelby's insights helped them realize that learning to fly is an achievable dream—right here in Abbeville! The students even had the chance to meet a real flight trainer and his student, who had just returned from a round-trip to Lake Charles. It was an inspiring and unforgettable experience for everyone involved!
This summer we awarded four of our Pathways Forward Students with scholarships to attend a Financial Literacy Summer Camp. This camp was put on by the Beyond the Bus Foundation and it offered teenagers from all over Acadiana the opportunity to engage with and learn about money management and personal development from local business leaders and professionals. This experience was a valuable first step in guiding them towards making sound decisions in adulthood.
Celebrating Youth Leadership, Service & Growth
On Monday, the Pathways Forward Youth Program proudly hosted its first-ever Recognition Night, honoring our incredible youth participants for their dedication to leadership, mentorship, and volunteerism throughout the 2024–2025 academic year. Though not all of our youth were able to attend, the evening was a powerful reminder of the passion, potential, and impact these young leaders bring to our communities.
Celebrating Our Graduating Seniors
We are thrilled to announce that all three of our senior participants will be pursuing higher education following graduation. Their commitment to personal growth and community involvement is an inspiration to us all.
Highlights from an Amazing Year
This school year has been filled with meaningful moments, including:
- College Tours – giving students a glimpse into their future
- Leadership Meetings – building confidence and communication skills
- Student-Led Events – such as our Christmas Celebration and Easter Egg Hunt at Herod Elementary, which were planned and executed entirely by our youth!
A Heartfelt Thank You
This unforgettable year would not have been possible without the generous support of the PACT United Grant from United Way of Acadiana. Your investment in our youth is helping shape the leaders of tomorrow. Thank you for believing in them—and in us.
Looking Ahead
We’re just getting started! We can’t wait to see how our students continue to grow and what exciting opportunities the next year will bring.
College Tours
Visiting campuses allows prospective students to get a feel for the college environment, explore the facilities, meet current students and faculty, and learn about the programs and resources offered by the institution.
Remember, college tours are not just about evaluating the institution; they are also an opportunity for you to determine if the college aligns with your goals, values, and preferences. Take your time, ask questions, and make the most out of the experience.
Barbering 101
Pathways Forward had the honor of bringing forth 3 barbering sessions, held at our offices. These Barbering 101 sessions introduced young people to the skill of cutting hair.
Mr. Kevin Broussard emphasized that barbering goes beyond just cutting hair—it’s about building connections and sharing life lessons between the barber and the client……Mr. Kevin did just that with these young men each session.
Thank you to the parents who dropped their young men off bright and early to attend.
Thank you to Mrs. Jackie Valdetero for providing the mannequins and of course BIG thank you to Mr. Kevin for your time, knowledge, and mentoring you provided each morning.
