Supporting the Next Generation of South Florida Learners and Leaders
Ken Griffin is investing in a program that helps South Florida students succeed from both sides of the classroom. A $2 million gift to Breakthrough Miami will expand the organization’s nationally recognized Students-Teaching-Students model, empowering high school and college students to become teachers and mentors while helping younger Scholars thrive academically.
The investment will strengthen Breakthrough Miami’s leadership pathway, creating more opportunities for students to serve as Volunteer Teachers, Teaching Assistants, and Teaching Fellows. Along the way, they gain hands-on teaching, leadership, and workforce experience that prepares them for success in college, careers, and the knowledge economy.
For more than three decades, Breakthrough Miami’s evidence-based, near-peer teaching model has created lasting impact for students at every stage. Younger Scholars benefit from engaging instruction and mentorship that strengthens academic and social development, while older students build confidence, leadership experience, and professional skills through immersive teaching opportunities.
“Breakthrough Miami has a profound impact on the lives of Miami students by teaching them the leadership and learning skills they need to pursue their dreams and aspirations. I care deeply about the lives of young people, and I am excited to know that my support of Breakthrough Miami will make a meaningful difference in our community.”
The gift will support more than 600 high school and college students each year through Breakthrough Miami’s leadership pipeline while reaching 1,800 younger Scholars across South Florida. Participants develop transferable skills such as public speaking, project management, instructional design, mentorship, and adaptive problem-solving while helping younger students succeed academically.
“There are few places where a 14- or 15-year-old can begin a structured leadership journey that can continue through high school and college,” said Lori-Ann Cox, CEO of Breakthrough Miami. “Griffin Catalyst’s support allows us to scale this unmatched youth leadership pathway.”
This investment reflects Ken’s continued commitment to expanding educational opportunity and preparing the next generation of leaders.
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