Summer Search
27 reviews total. Average rating:
User Reviews
I was a Client Served & I was a student in the SUmmer Search Programs, graduated in 2008 and was a Summer Search Ambassador Program Leader
Post public compliment
Loading...
I must first answer the question of who I am for you to better understand my essay, but it is who I have become that is important. I believe things happen for a reason. Any obstacles I have faced somehow always turned into a blessing or learning experience, the building blocks for who I am today. In my sophomore year of high school, Summer Search, a leadership development program for low-income teenagers entered my life. Before my acceptance into Summer Search, I was consumed with the constant feeling that I must care for those around me, and I had no outlet for my own emotions. I felt so frenzied by caring for others that I did not have time to care for myself. For example, I kept my anger bottled up inside and rarely talked about my own emotions. That phase of my life ended because Summer Search gave me the opportunity to talk weekly with my mentor about what I am dealing with or what is bothering me. These calls have frequently made me uncomfortable or made me wish I was anywhere but on the phone with my mentor, but they are a necessary part of my week. Summer Search compelled me to be honest with myself and guided me to accept my imperfections.
In the summer of 2006, Summer Search sent me on a twenty-four day multi-expedition wilderness program. While mountain biking with my group we lost sight of the trail when it became covered in a snowdrift. We were unprepared for the elements and hunkered together for warmth until we were discovered at 12:30 a.m. by a Search and Rescue helicopter. That was the first time in my life that I felt my life could be in danger and that feeling resonated in me for days after our rescue. From this experience, my wilderness trip taught me how to harness my strength to press on in the most challenging situations. Blisters taught me about endurance, backpacking taught me about patience, mosquitoes taught me about tolerance, Search and Rescue taught me about unrestrained generosity, rock climbing taught me about trust and windsurfing taught me about finding my direction.
In addition to the wilderness trip, Summer Search funded my trip to Peru this past summer where I spent a month building a preschool in a small community in the Sacred Valley. Each member of my group came to affect me in beautiful ways, like how misleading my first impressions were. I made assumptions before I knew my group on a deeper level or knew about their background. One of the greatest impressions left on my heart was by a boy named Stuart, who fit the stereotype of a “meathead jock”, complete with a Long Islander accent. After befriending Stuart and learning about his family history, I understood why he has a facade of cockiness and got to see how genuine and caring he was once I made the effort to connect with him.
Even after we parted ways, the people on my trip truly amazed me with their diversity of personalities and friendship they offered me. After spending thirty days with the same people, I formed unconditional friendships and whether I see them or not, I love them and appreciate the chance to know them. On the other hand, having made such meaningful relationships and leaving each other so quickly was the most difficult part of my summer. However, with this loss I have learned to let go and readjust to my life in Seattle without forgetting my friendships from Peru.
Since the launch of my relationship with Summer Search, I have adopted new qualities and have formed new relationships that positively contribute to my life. I am proud of my accomplishments and my progress with Summer Search, yet also pleased that I have retained the distinctiveness of my personality. Change and growth in my life have not ended, but are really just beginning. I am on a journey with Summer Search that will last throughout the rest high school and will affect how I live my life. Summer Search has blessed my life in countless ways and will continue to be there to lend a hand as I settle into my spirit.
The Great!
- The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were... compassionate, generous, unconditional love, motivating
- If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could... expand the number of students it serves by thousands
Ways to make it better!
- My experience would have been better if... it was flawless
- If I ran this organization, I would... be Linda
- In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are... the funding to expand and perhaps misleading first impression that Summer Search is a cult
I was a Client Served & I was a student in the Summer Search Programs
Post public compliment
Summer Search has expanded my horizons well beyond my own. It allowed me to see the potential in me and what I could achieve.
The Great!
- I've seen the results of this organization in... the support network and guidance.
- What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is... my trips to the Four Corners and China.
- The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were... informative, supportive, convincing, amazing.
- If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could... sponsor cutting edge mentorships for college students.
Ways to make it better!
- My experience would have been better if... my parents had a greater understanding of what Summer Search was all about
- If I ran this organization, I would... do everything the same and consider myself blessed.
- In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are... keep the alums well connected.
I was a Client Served & I was a student in the Summer Search Programs and am currently an active member of the alumni board
Post public compliment
After having 2 interviews to become a Summer Search student I am no longer afraid of the unknown and I am no longer intimidated by uncomfortable situations. Rather I have learned to value them as it has allowed me to grow as a person.
The Great!
- I've seen the results of this organization in... the way it supported me, the turnout at events such as the Alumni Summits, in the skills I have learned, especially in articulating and in improving my image of myself.
- The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were... inspirational, motivational, supportive, amazing.
- If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could... give opportunities to more who deserve a chance.
Ways to make it better!
- My experience would have been better if... I had remained more connected after graduating.
- In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are... the growth. I would hate to see the organization lose its intimacy which has made the program so valuable.
I was a Client Served & I was a student in the Summer Search Programs and am currently also a volunteer, donor, and board member
Post public compliment
Summer Search is a class organization that has done everything with integrity, grace, and gratitude. As we expand, the core values are still present, and still feels intimate.
The Great!
- What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is... the ability to connect with people that are really invested in my development.
- The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were... dedicated, hard working, present (mentally, physically)
Ways to make it better!
I was a Client Served & I am a Summer Search alumni--I graduated in 2002 but still volunteer
Post public compliment
I think that Summer Search does a good job of providing kids a chance to see what their potential is.
The Great!
- I've seen the results of this organization in... the quality of the people that participate.
- What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is... working with the great people.
- The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were... AWESOME!!
- If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could... expand and provide more leadership opportunities.
Ways to make it better!
- My experience would have been better if... I'd have a bit more mentoring by alumni.
- If I ran this organization, I would... bring alumni to talk to the kids in order to foster a network.
- In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are... not communicating with other nonprofits and utilities.
I was a Client Served & I was a student in the Summer Search programs and graduated in 2002 from Boston
Post public compliment
Summer Search is an amazing organization. It helped me find direction in my life. The staff cares a lot about the students. It changed my life.
The Great!
- I've seen the results of this organization in... they way it supported me. Also organize the alumni base is a smart move. We are movers and shakers and to get us all together, who knows what we can accomplish.
- What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is... meeting like-minded individuals.
- The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were... encouraging, positive, challenging.
- If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could... put offices in all 50 states.
Ways to make it better!
- If I ran this organization, I would... partner with like-minded organization to create a consortium of change.
- In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are... the sky's the limit.
I was a Client Served & I was a student in the Summer Search Programs and graduated in 2002
Post public compliment
I arrived in the U.S. in 2000, found Summer Search, went to a summer camp MH in summer between junior and senior year. I learned my English/most of it at least there. I met amazing people and because of Summer Search I was nominated for Posse Foundation full tuition and went to Hamilton College.
The Great!
- I've seen the results of this organization in... I learned how to see an outside world/outside circle, take chances and don't be shy to ask or try. I graduated from a top college! First one in my family!
- What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is... going to MH and learning English, making contacts, meeting great students, who ust need to be seen and recognized or given an opportunity.
- The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were... sweet, strong, caring, trustworthy, challenging, brave, mentors
- If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could... give more opportunities to more students
Ways to make it better!
- My experience would have been better if... I could be here for a whole weekend and knew more people, more adventure programs for the first day to break the ice--have a great network with businessmen and organizers.
- If I ran this organization, I would... do very similar activities, just improve the connection among students before they graduate. I also make sure there are more events with current Summer Search students and the alumni.
- In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are... financial need, putting the words out
I was a Client Served & I was a student in the Summer Search Programs and graduated from East Boston HS in 2002
Post public compliment
I was able to travel to Alabama to Dolphin Island Sea Lab and studied marine biology on the Gulf of Mexico. We also traveled to New Orleans and Florida. I was able to scuba dive and snorkel and meet different youth from around the country. Summer Search really showed me a world outside my own and yet one I could be a part of.
The Great!
- I've seen the results of this organization in... the mentorship provided is truly outstanding. They mentor you for life!
- What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is... the relationships with the alumni and the networking possibilities.
- The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were... phenomenal
- If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could... go beyond the U.S. and put offices in Latin America. Especially my country, Guatemala.
Ways to make it better!
- My experience would have been better if... I had options of programs. If it continued throughout my college years
- If I ran this organization, I would... put more people of color in higher positions and mostly hire alums.
- In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are... the possibility of pushing its alums to the for profit sector. It should sway them to the not for profit work.
I was a Client Served & I was a student in the SUmmer Search Programs and continue to attend alumni events
Post public compliment
I imigrated from Cape Verde to Boston in 1996 when I was twelve. I was sponsored over by my father but my mother stayed back. In Boston, I was the mother to my little brother, and the woman of the house. I never had time for myself and felt like I had no family or support. That's when SS stepped into my life and saved me! Summer Search is the family I did not have in this country.
The Great!
- I've seen the results of this organization in... the way it supported and helped me through H.S.
- What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is... network (family).
- The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were... my mentors and the family I was looking for.
- If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could... change the lives of more young people like myself.
Ways to make it better!
- My experience would have been better if... I stayed in touch after graduation and continued that family relationship
- In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are... funding!
I was a Client Served & I was a student in the Summer Search Programs and also an intern at the North Bay office
Post public compliment
My experience with SS has so much impact on me that I want to pay it forward by helping young adults.
The Great!
- I've seen the results of this organization in... the success of its graduates, the way it supported me and helped me through high school, and the skills I learned in its programs.
- What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is... they still care--"Once a Summer Searcher, always a Summer Searcher."
- The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were... energetic, passionate
Ways to make it better!
I was a Client Served & I was a student in the Summer Search Programs and currently particpate in the CAN Program as a speaker
Post public compliment
Summer Search helped me realize how important I am and to keep fighting for what I believe what the rest of the world has gone out.
The Great!
- I've seen the results of this organization in... the success of its graduates, and for helping me realize how strong I can be and how far I can go. Keep reaching out to those kids. A lot of other people have given up, but you haven't.
- What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is... The people and places and trying new things. Growing as a community.
- The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were... nice, fun, loving, supportive, understanding, patient
- If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could... reach more kids in other states than they already have. Become more global.
Ways to make it better!
- My experience would have been better if... My experience was great and still is. The only thing I have to deal with is my personal demons.
- If I ran this organization, I would... I wouldn't. I'm not the running kind. I would help support the person running from behind the scenes.
- In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are... trying to keep up with the growing numbers of kids/alums and giving more programs without going broke.
I was a Client Served & I was a student in the Summer Search Programs
Post public compliment
Summer Search has helped me live a more fulfilling life.
*This review was collected on a site visit and entered by GreatNonprofits staff
The Great!
- I've seen the results of this organization in... Believing in us. Encouraging us to dream.
- What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is... the growth.
- The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were... open, warm, challenging.
- If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could... save the world!
Ways to make it better!
- My experience would have been better if... -
- If I ran this organization, I would... -
- In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are... staying true to principles as it grows
I was a Client Served & I was a student in the Summer Search Programs
Post public compliment
They were my emotional outlet; I don't like to talk about myself, so it was good to let it all out and grow from feeling like a victim to feeling super empowered.
The Great!
- I've seen the results of this organization in... For many of its students Summer Search has encouraged them through high school and become the 1st in their family to go to college.
- What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is... Talking to my mentor and becoming good friends with her.
- The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were... devoted, caring, kind, passionate
- If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could... serve hundreds more students and have new offices!
Ways to make it better!
- My experience would have been better if... mentors seemed to really real (care about your issues) all the time. They were there 80% of the time. I know it's hard!
- If I ran this organization, I would... market it even harder and grow faster!
- In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are... how to grow big and keep the quality.
I was a Client Served & I was a student in the Summer Search programs and graduated in 1998; I am also a current volunteer and donor, and I run the SoCal alumni chapter
Post public compliment
Though my trip was a very difficult emotional experience, my life as an alumni changes me ever day. I have learned so much about myself and giving and I OWE so much to SS and my mentor, Jay Jacobs.
The Great!
- I've seen the results of this organization in... the continuous support, the skills I've acquired and a near-fearless attitude.
- What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is... the support and endearing sense of family.
- The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were... awesome, committed, dedicated, beautiful
- If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could... start an L.A. office!
Ways to make it better!
- My experience would have been better if... I had been denied my request to not go on a wilderness trip.
- If I ran this organization, I would... talk to Jay Jacobs 24/7 to make sure it didn't tank.
- In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are... growing without losing sight of the mission.
I was a Client Served & I was a student in the Summer Search Programs and graduated in 2005
Post public compliment
Summer Search allowed me to explore things I would have never done. Before Summer Search my outlook on life was negative and I lacked something, something in which I never thought I would get from this program. This program helped me find a more positive outlook on many things.
The Great!
- I've seen the results of this organization in... 100% of all Summer Search students graduate high school. They help you during the good and bad times of HS
- What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is... having someone to listen!
- The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were... phenomenal, spectacular, slightly over happy but kept students smiling
- If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could... allow more students an opportunity to grow
Ways to make it better!
- My experience would have been better if... I would keep in contact more often
- If I ran this organization, I would... allow the students to choose where they go but to have them explain their reasoning for their choice
- In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are... having students open up to total strangers
Summer Search was and still is helping me to become who I am destined to be. They never doubted me and never turned their backs on me. They are everything they can be or you want them to be.
The Great!
- I've seen the results of this organization in... the definite success of graduates. ALso the mentors being able to step into kids' shoes and going on wilderness experiences to understand what we go through.
- What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is... everything-trips, mentorship, volunteer and board membership.
- The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were... perfect, amazing, everything and anything.
- If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could... change more kids' lives.
Ways to make it better!
- My experience would have been better if... it was already great.
- If I ran this organization, I would... do the same.
- In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are... growing larger and still maintaining the core value of what Summer Search is to Summer Search but more importantly to students.
I was a Client Served & I was a student in the Summer Search Programs and graduated in 2008
Post public compliment