He never took school seriously until he became a Tutor-Mentor. Everyone - including the classroom teacher he helped - noticed the change.

Damari Thomas (usually known as DT) says Root 2 Rise was the first time he felt treated with respect by anyone except his mother - and the first time he felt like attending high school classes instead of "goofing off."

Five years after DT helped in her Lincoln School classroom in Madison, teacher Angie Hall still remembers DT's passion for helping kids, especially those who were withdrawn and wouldn't share their problems with anyone else. DT credits the experience with his decision to pursue a career in special education. He now works at Toki Middle School in Madison.

Root 2 Rise: Thrive has provided him with technology and and career support.

"Root 2 Rise made students feel so connected and motivated. A few were close to dropping out of high school. This program kept them engaged. It pulled them back in," says Hall.

"I know every school would want Root 2 Rise to be part of their programming.