Village Virtual Mentorship

Program Review

December 2023 - December 2024

In the summer of 2023, Let’s Learn Collectively designed a mentorship program using a village model (Each One, Teach One) and in December 2023, the program received support from Hennepin County Youth Gun Violence Prevent Fund. From December 2023 to December 2024, 40 youth living in Hennepin County ages 16-21 enrolled in Village Virtual Mentorship program to receive direct support, career and life skills, and most of all community. The vision of the program is that each child has at least 2 adults that they can trust to guide them. The mission is simple, embrace Hennepin County youth with love, positive affirmation, and culturally-responsive mentorship. Our partners include Sheridan Neighborhood Organization, City of Minneapolis Arts & Culture Ambassador, Marquise Bowie, and more! Special thanks to Hennepin County Youth Gun Violence Prevention Fund and MCN6.

What Happened

December 2023, L.L.C.O.O.L.J. is awarded $90,900 by Hennepin County YGVP
February 2024, L.L.C.O.O.L.J. starts street marketing campaign.
March 2024, VVM receives first applicants
April 2024, VVM supports youth in achieving a Cottage Food License
April 2025, L.L.C.O.O.L.J. hires a VVM youth as an intern at $20/hr.
May 2024, VVM is at 50% capacity and supports 15 youth in achieving career and life goals through mentorship.
May 2024, VVM host 1st program-wide event and giveaway for 15 youth.
June 2024, L.L.C.O.O.L.J. hires 4 more VVM youth as interns at $20/hr each.
August 2024, VVM is at 100% capacity with 60% engagement.
August 2024, VVM host 2nd program-wide event and giveaway for 30 youth.
August 2024, L.L.C.O.O.L.J. is awarded funding for Reading Out Loud Literacy, an alternative learning initiative for young adults age 18 to 30, from City of Minneapolis Community Trauma Response Fund.
September 2024, VVM hires Program Assistant, Marquise Bowie.
October 2024, Marquise Bowie helps to boost enrollment by 30% with almost 100% engagement.
November 2024, VVM host 3 program-wide events including Culminating Extravaganza at new location!
November 2024, Hennepin County YGVP contract expires after having serving over 40 youth.
December 2024, 22 VVM youth (Age 18 to 30) are rolled over to Reading Out Loud Literacy program.