What Is Accelerating Impact?
Funded by the Templeton Foundation, the Accelerated Impact initiative is a pioneering pilot program that introduces “positive peer groups.” These groups, organized based on age, convene monthly for scholars to collaboratively plan and lead activities that reflect their genuine interests, aspirations, and challenges, fostering a culture of learning and growth. Supported by an adult coach, scholars both encourage and hold each other accountable for their goals, reflecting on progress and setbacks. The ultimate goal of Accelerating Impact, funded by the John Templeton Foundation, is to leverage the power of close peer relationships to enhance positive youth development outcomes. The initiative aims not only to benefit Boys Hope Girls Hope but also to contribute insights to enhance the broader understanding of effective strategies for young individuals.
While at the University of Denver, our visitors participated alongside scholars in an Accelerating Impact Curiosity Lesson to experience for themselves how these programs function in a tangible way. They also spoke with current Boys Hope Girls Hope of Colorado Collegian and University of Denver student, Arthur, about his experience tapping into the resources available through both Boys Hope Girls Hope and the University of Denver as a partner school.
In early October, Boys Hope Girls Hope of Colorado hosted visitors from the Boys Hope Girls Hope Network Headquarters, as well as representatives from other Boys Hope Girls Hope Affiliates who will also be participating in the Accelerating Impact program. Visitors toured both academy program sites, enjoyed a meal with Board Members and local team members, saw a few local sights, and spent a day on the University of Denver Campus alongside our scholars.
Scholars rounded out the day with a tour of the University of Denver Campus to learn about the school from the perspective of potential future students.