The first charity we’re going to meet was set up by Toucan founder and CEO Matt Crate. We sat down with Matt for a quick chat about who Streets Ahead are and how they help.
What is Streets Ahead?
Streets Ahead works with schools in economically deprived areas of London. We deliver a practical and inspiring course to students aged 14-18 that’s designed to help individuals recognise and develop the skills they need to achieve their own versions of success.
How does the course work?
The course is delivered by us, within a partnering school and requires each child to undertake a short application process in order to participate. The applications provide the Streets Ahead team valuable insight into each child’s individual aspirations and fears and, as a result, we’ll have a better idea of where the group is as a whole, before we begin delivering the course.
The course itself has been carefully designed, in conjunction with industry experts, to have a lasting impact on all participants who commit to it with an open and optimistic mindset.
Throughout the module we aim to challenge one major idea about success that is commonly held by young people from economically disadvantaged backgrounds: that success is something that happens to other people.
The rest of the course is then ultimately about showing and teaching each participant that, if they want to, they can take control of their future and achieve their own version of success.
When did you launch?
In 2015. I set it up with two lifelong friends who felt the same way as I did and wanted to inspire young adults into understanding their passions, goals and strengths in a greater depth so that they can create their own version of success.
How can people help?
Any donations are always greatly appreciated or if you feel you could contribute professionally or creatively to the work we do, please do get in touch, we respond to every message we receive.
If you want to know more about Streets Ahead visit www.streetsahead.org or to add them to your portfolio, head to their Toucan profile here.