On September 28, 2024 PEAK kicked off the new school year with our first Mentor + Scholar Event. The event was a Tennis Day at the XS Tennis Center (5336 S State St, Chicago, IL 60609) on the South Side of Chicago. The event was a resounding success, providing a unique opportunity for mentors and scholars to bond while learning a new sport.

We partnered with the US Tennis Association to offer a fun and accessible introduction to tennis, utilizing pickle-ball sized courts and less-bouncy balls. This made the game more engaging and competitive, especially for those new to the sport.

The event was more than just about tennis. It was an opportunity for mentors and scholars to connect on a deeper level, build trust, and strengthen their relationships. It also exposed scholars to a new sport that none of the PEAK scholars had played before.

Why was this event important for PEAK?

• Strengthened Relationships: The event provided a fun and engaging way for mentors and scholars to bond and build stronger relationships.
• New Experiences: Scholars were exposed to a new sport and developed new skills.
• Community Building: The event fostered a sense of community and belonging among mentors and scholars.
• Positive Impact: This event was just one example of the many ways PEAK provides unique and enriching experiences for our scholars.

Our next Mentor + Scholar event will be at The National Museum of Mexican Art. That event is focused on exposing our scholars to culture and the arts. We’re going to have the opportunity to tour the Dia de Muertos Exhibit and will do a walking tour of murals in the local Chicago neighborhood of Pilsen. We look forward to continuing to provide opportunities for our scholars to grow and thrive.