Above, you see pictured LEAP student, rising college freshman, Kelly, alongside her 2023 summer career mentor, Dr. Christine Valdes of the North Shore Physician's Group.

For several years now, LEAP's Summer Work Program has been a unique opportunity -- a solution -- for hundreds of teens across Salem and Lynn.

The problem? We all recognize that an "opportunity gap" exists between students from low-income households and higher-income homes, respectively. This gap takes many forms and significantly impacts the former's ability to learn, develop skills, and make connections as they deserve.

Further, for most teens from low-income homes, working after school or the summer months is not a luxury but a necessity.

LEAP created its Summer Work Program, a 6-week paid summer work and project-based learning career mentorship program, to provide 100 teenaged students (14-19) with a high-quality, future career-focused experience and 1:1 volunteer mentorship. Each student works a total of 120 hours and earns minimum wage -- for approximately $1,800 in earnings per student.

This powerful program starts in the early days of July. In the early days of June, LEAP received word that budgeted funding to cover students' wages was reduced by 50% (i.e. $80,000).

Still, LEAP is fully committed to ensuring all 100 students registered (of the 200+ student applicants) are provided with this special program in the weeks ahead.

We need your help to raise $50,000 by July 31, to help offset our deficit -- to serve every student!

Please make a gift today that is meaningful to you. Then share this page with your networks via social media and email.

Many hands make light work. Please play even a small part in making a huge difference in the lives of our Lynn and Salem students this summer.

While you dream of beach time, barbecues and hammocks, LEAP's teen students dream of working on their dream careers and earning an honest wage.

Please help us to help them achieve these admirable goals. Thank you!

LEAP Students' Drive to Learn+Earn This Summer

Help us raise $50,000 in 50 days to provide a one-of-a-kind experience

Team Members