Black, Educated, Successful, Thriving (B.E.S.T.) Young Male Enrichment Program empowers young Black men in Minnesota to excel academically and personally, leading to college graduation and successful entry into professional careers.
*Please explore this page to learn more about our program commitment before you apply. Application link found on bottom of page.
PROGRAM SERVICE OFFERINGS
B.E.S.T enrolls high school students, providing continuous support and tailored programming throughout high school, college, and the first year of their careers. Our holistic approach encompasses:
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Academic support
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College preparation
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Mentorship & life skills training
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Career exploration & readiness
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Health & wellbeing initiatives
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Financial literacy & wealth development
Participation in B.E.S.T. is designed to instill confidence, foster a growth mindset, and prepare young, Black men to overcome the academic, professional, and social challenges of adulthood. Our goal isn't just to help Black men survive; it's to support their journey to thrive, to break barriers, and rewrite the narrative of possibility!
Our programs are tailored to the unique experiences of Black male youths and young adults, fostering a supportive community that cultivates success and resilience.
ELIGIBILITY
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Identify as a Black, African American, or African male
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Be in 9th or 12th grade of high school
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Reside in Minneapolis
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Have a current cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 or above
PROGRAM TIMELINE
B.E.S.T. scholars are enrolled in the program the spring semester/quarter of their 9th grade year and participate throughout high school. Upon graduating high school and enrolling into an accredited college/university (pursuing an associates or bachelors), scholars then transition to the B.E.S.T. college program.
Once a college degree is attained, scholars receive one year of formal career development support from the B.E.S.T. program as alumni, while also recognizing their alumni status and connection to the program is for a lifetime.
EXPECTED HIGH SCHOOL COMMITMENT
Requirements of high school scholars include:
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Maintain a 85% attendance per semester of after school enrichment programming which occurs one day a week
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9th grade meets every Tuesday, 4:00pm - 5:30pm
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12th grade meets every Thursday, 4:00pm - 5:30pm
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Maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or above per semester
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Utilize tutoring should their grades within a subject(s) be C or below. Though this is the requirement for grades that are C or below, scholars will have access to tutoring whenever it is needed
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Attend check-in meetings with a high school success coach, occurring at minimum twice a month. May occur more frequently based on scholar’s developmental need and journey
Requirements of parents/support unit:
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Attend scholar orientation, occurs at start of every semester (twice a year)
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Attend family developmental day, occurs once a year
EXPECTED COLLEGE
COMMITMENT
B.E.S.T. expectations and support of scholars does not stop at high school. Upon grading from high school, it is the expectation that B.E.S.T. scholars transition to college (pursuing an associates or bachelors).
Requirements of college scholars include:
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Maintain a 85% attendance per semester of virtual enrichment programming which occurs every other month
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Maintain a college success plan reflective of on track graduation requirements, including passing of courses, degree program enrollment, and financial good standing
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Participation in two or more formal career exploration initiatives (internships, fellowships, career pathways programs, etc.)
APPLICATION PROCESS
Now accepting applications to join the 9th and 12th grade group of B.E.S.T. scholars!
Ready. Set. Be your B.E.S.T.!
Application open until all spots are filled for this cycle. Space is limited so apply today.