Empowering Atlanta’s youth in crises by elevating academic, social and civic expectations.
Since 1995
For 30 years, Raising Expectations (RE) has provided a comprehensive support system that champions academic excellence and personal growth for young people in Atlanta.
What began as a grassroots tutoring and mentor effort, has evolved into a generational catalyst for change, having mentored and empowered thousands of students who are now leaders, professionals, and active citizens within their communities.
By breaking cycles of poverty and fostering a culture of high achievement, RE has proven that consistent, intentional investment in youth creates a ripple effect of success that strengthens families and neighborhoods for decades.
30 Years of Measurable Impact
Every number represents a young person who discovered their potential, overcame obstacles, and built a foundation for success.
Graduation Rate
95
%
Students Served
5000
+
College Enrollment
85
%
GPA Improvement
2.8
x
Active Mentors
500
+
What Students Say
Christian Essimbe
Contract Advisor, Sempra Energy and Tennessee State University Graduate
"Raising Expectations impacted my life by being a village of support that surrounded me with encouragement and guidance."
JADE PINKSTON-JONES
School Enrollment Coordinator, Duval County Public Schools-Jacksonville, FL and Savannah State University Graduate
“Raising Expectations helped me grow from a little boy who didn’t have knowledge of work or what he wanted to do in life, to a grown man that finally found his way.”
LCPL. DERRICK CAIN
Lance Corporal, United States Marine Corps
"Raising Expectations has shown me what true commitment, consistency, dedication, stability, and trust look like—qualities I had not encountered in my life."
LYRIC MCGHEE
CRM Business Analyst, Equifax, former Raising Expectations Board Member, and Georgia State University Graduate
"One of the greatest lessons Raising Expectations instilled in me was the importance of responsibility."
DRÈIUS MARTIN
Actor, Youth Advocate, and Georgia State University Graduate
Brighter Futures.
Stronger Communities.
Every dollar given, every dream sparked, every life changed—your support makes it happen.
Raising Expectations, an Atlanta nonprofit, empowers youth in crises by elevating academic, social and civic expectations to facilitate high school graduation and post-secondary plans.
- 678.768.4932
- P.O. Box 92814, Atlanta, GA 30314
Congratulations to @advancethelives founder @ryan_matt02 on his appointment as Head of Football with the Atlanta Falcons! Matt has demonstrated what leadership looks like both on and off the field. His commitment to supporting youth serving organizations across Atlanta has helped expand opportunity, uplift young people and strengthen families. We are proud to celebrate this next chapter and grateful for his continued investment in the work of @raisingexpectations
“When you have mentors who hold you accountable to the highest degree, you’re built for success. There’s no other outcome.”