I AM Academy: Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders
Every young person has the potential to lead, but not all have the support they need to get there. I AM Academy is more than a program—it’s a launchpad, giving students the tools, confidence, and mentorship to break barriers and build bright futures.
Where They Start:
Many students enter our program struggling with self-doubt, limited positive role models, and challenges at home and in school. Some face unstable environments or peer pressure that make it hard to see a path forward. Others simply need someone to believe in them—to show them that their future holds more than they ever imagined.
Where They Can Go With the Right Support:
With encouragement, structure, and practical tools, our students transform:
- From Self-Doubt to Confidence – Through leadership exercises and mentorship, they begin to trust their abilities, collaborate with others, and step up as role models. In fact, 91% of students reported a stronger understanding of integrity, teamwork, and collaboration.
- From Reacting to Thriving – Learning to manage emotions is a game-changer. With a focus on self-awareness and coping skills, 94% of students identified their triggers and developed strategies for self-control—skills that help them navigate challenges with resilience instead of frustration.
- From Falling Behind to Succeeding – Whether it’s improving grades, strengthening relationships, or setting career goals, students leave with a vision for their future. 95% took real action, from completing responsibilities without being asked to showing respect to teachers and peers. And the impact isn’t just personal—it’s academic, where 40% of students improved their reading skills in the last school year!
Once shy and reserved, Quynh found her voice through the I AM Academy. Now a senior, she transformed into a confident leader, ready to take on new opportunities such as pursuing a medical degree from University of Florida.
Real Impact, Real Change
I AM Academy isn’t just about lessons—it’s about transformation. Our students are stepping into leadership, making better choices, and believing in their own potential. They’re choosing kindness over conflict, setting goals, and taking action.
When young people are given the right tools, they rise. And when they rise, entire communities grow stronger.
I AM Academy services are offered at the following locations:
Sarasota County
Alta Vista Elementary | Booker Middle School (Bilingual) | Cyesis (Riverview High School) | Emma E Booker Elementary | Goodwill – Selby/Newtown Job Connection (Community Site) | Suncoast School For Innovative Studies | Tuttle Elementary
Manatee County
Bayshore Elementary School | Blanche H. Daughtrey Elementary School | Braden River Middle School | Buffalo Creek Middle School | Carlos E. Haile Middle School | Electa Lee Magnet Middle School (Bilingual) | GD Rogers Garden-Bullock Elementary School (Bilingual) | Lincoln Memorial Middle School | Manatee Elementary | WD Sugg Middle School
2024 Academy Elite Camp
Truly Valued concluded its inaugural football camp, supported by former pro players and coaches who volunteered over 300 hours for camper safety. Click here for more media coverage.
Your donation is an investment that changes lives!