Mid-Atlantic Advocacy Through Education

Mid-Atlantic Advocacy Through Education (MATE) is raising funds to support 2 African-American students from the D.C. area as they enter their first year of college. Our MATE Scholars need us now more than ever -- join our community by donating or spreading the word about our cause!

Our Story: In 2014, a group of 13 close friends made a commitment to making a difference in the educational lives of our young people, and Mid-Atlantic Advocacy Through Education was born. Our mission: to build a community of individuals and institutions committed to fostering student success, college degree attainment, and educational equity for D.C.-area students transitioning from high school to local universities.

What We Do: MATE provides scholarships, mentoring, and academic advising to African American students with financial need who are entering their freshman year of college. Through a tailored approach, we help students navigate educational systems that were not designed for their inclusion. Each MATE Scholar is paired with a mentor and an academic advisor to help them deal with academic, social, and emotional challenges as they transition to the college environment. Scholars participate in 8 in-depth sessions with their academic advisor and 4 experiences with their mentor, each customized to meet their needs as they progress through their freshman year.  In addition, MATE offsets the cost of books and supplies, and provides a small financial scholarship. 

Your Support: As we prepare to serve 2 new MATE Scholars in the 2020-2021 academic year, we are calling out to our community for support. This year will be particularly challenging for students as they enter into an increasingly complex college environment, making your support even more critical. Funds will go toward scholarships, books and supplies, impactful mentoring experiences, and professional academic advising for students throughout the year.