EnCompass SPIRIT
Helping homeless teens graduate.
Homelessness takes many different forms. Teenagers may live in cars, motels, parks, or couch surf at friends' houses.
On top of not having a stable home, students may be disconnected from their parents or long-term guardians. They are in dire circumstances for reasons including abuse, family trauma, and conflicts.
EnCompass SPIRIT powers teens experiencing homelessness to overcome obstacles and achieve high school graduation. In spite of significant challenges, these resilient young people make remarkable progress. Through our program, they are graduating high school, breaking cycles of poverty, and embarking on bright futures.
3.5x
Homeless students are 3.5x more likely to drop out of school than their housed peers with only a 40% graduation rate in Rochester, compared to an overall rate of 70%.
The Students We Serve
SPIRIT serves students who are:
✓ Enrolled in a high school, aged 14 to 22
✓ Homeless as defined by McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act
✓ Unaccompanied through no choice of their own; not in the consistent physical custody of a parent or long-term legal guardian; or without a stable home
We partner with Rochester-area high schools to support teens facing homelessness. Our goal is to ensure every student has the resources, stability, and support they need to stay engaged in school, succeed academically, and plan for a strong future.
Getting Involved
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Support Students Today
Your donation to EnCompass SPIRIT supports students to succeed in high school and beyond. Every dollar donated is matched 150% by The Sands Family Foundation.
To Make an ACH Transfer:
Education Success Foundation | ESL Federal Credit Union UPIC #: 16867422 | Routing #: 021052053
Mail Checks To: Education Success Foundation | 4 Lakeview Park | Rochester, NY 14613 | Note: SPIRIT NYS
Pay By Phone: Jordan Cimilluca | 585-563-2943
Volunteer & Event Opportunities
There are many ways you can volunteer throughout the year, individually or as a group.
How We Help
Student Incentives
Financial stress is the most common reason homeless teens drop out of school. Our students earn incentives twice monthly through consistent engagement and focusing on their education.
Mentorship
We link students with a mentor within their schools, who guide them to improve attendance, raise grades, and set goals. These ongoing relationships encourage students on their paths to graduation.
Advocacy
We connect students with EnCompass services and community organizations, and act as liaisons for services including: ✓Food ✓Clothing ✓Hygiene items ✓Career & college preparation ✓Job training and placement
