I am excited for you to begin this next chapter of your life. Our mission at Communities In Schools of Mid-America is “to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.” We believe this mission is something our students will continue to embody, especially after high school. If we have not already met, my name is Leslie Harmon. I am the Special Programs Manager with Communities In Schools (CIS) of Mid-America, and I want to welcome you to our alumni program. The Alumni Allies Network (AAN) is a network for former CIS students who wish to continue receiving supports and resources as they did in high school. The program’s goal is to encourage self-sufficiency, and self-advocacy, provide access to college and career resources, keep students connected with CIS of Mid-America, and most importantly, with each other. AAN is a place for alumni to engage and support their peers after high school. Alumni will have the opportunity to network with mentors and receive support in skill development, enrichment programs, resume-building activities, and referrals to community resources.

We aim to create a network to support continued success in this next transition in students’ lives. These supports include individual meetings, our interactive Google site, educational workshops, and peer connection opportunities.

I look forward to getting to know you better and building a relationship of trust and friendship as you start this new journey as an adult. Congratulations!