Dear Reader,
A Story of Student Success
Every donation made to Barrier Breakers is more than a gift—it's an investment in a student’s future. In this edition, we’re proud to spotlight one remarkable student whose journey has been directly shaped by your generosity. From overcoming barriers to achieving distinguished academic honors, this student’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact you make when you choose to give.
Meet Eastwood Yeboah!
Our donors make student success stories like Eastwood Yeboah’s possible.
Eastwood, one of our remarkable pro bono students, recently graduated Summa Cum Laude from Union College—an achievement made even more extraordinary by the distinguished honors and service awards he earned along the way.
He was awarded the John Lewis March Prize, recognizing his exceptional growth and passion in psychology, and the Frank Bailey Prize, the most prestigious student honor at Union College, given to the senior who has rendered the greatest service to the college in any field. These accolades reflect not only academic excellence but a deep commitment to leadership and community.
Your donations made it possible for Eastwood to access the resources, mentorship, and support he needed to thrive.
In the Fall of 2025, Eastwood will begin studying at National Taiwan University, where he will pursue a Master of Science in Global Health, aspiring for a professional career that helps to destigmatize mental health on an international level.
Thanks to your generosity, Eastwood is headed toward a future full of promise and purpose. This is the power of your support.
The Barrier Breakers Impact with Global MindED.
Beyond academics, Eastwood gave back—serving as a panelist on our Global MindED First Generation College Student Panel, where he shared insights and inspiration with other students striving to follow in his footsteps. Eastwood Yeboah, along with our other participant, Yonathan "Yoni" Solomon, were
We're so proud of your students helping to further the mission and reach of Global MindED
Eastwood Yeboah and Yonathan "Yoni" Solomon
Panel
So proud of yoni - a little just a little background
Barrier Breakers believes that every child should have access to a quality education, no matter their social or economic standing. This year we are proud to provide comprehensive, personalized college counseling to 30-40 low-income high school students this year, in the School District of Philadelphia, helping them navigate every step of the college application process—from building their school lists and crafting compelling essays to securing financial aid and making their final decisions.
Philadelphia’s public school system is one of the largest in the nation, serving a diverse student population that includes many first-generation and low-income students. We’re honored to work directly with these students to break down barriers, simplify the college application process, and ensure they have the resources, mentorship, and guidance necessary to pursue higher education. As part of our Outreach and Wellness Program, we will provide continued support and check-ins to these students for four years during college.
This partnership is particularly meaningful as it allows us to reach students who may not otherwise have access to robust college counseling services. It’s a critical step forward in advancing our mission of educational equity.
$2,400 or $200/month allows us to make this opportunity real for a deserving student.
Will you join us in changing the future of students in Philadelphia this year?
Barrier Breakers is dedicated to leveling the playing field for high school students in under-resourced communities, providing personalized, pro bono college access support to students in the Philadelphia School District and through our partnership with the HomeWorks Trenton project. We work closely with students to navigate the college admissions process, from building strong applications to securing scholarships and financial aid—offering the kind of one-on-one guidance that can change the course of a young person’s life. Your sponsorship can ensure that a student receives the tools, mentorship, and support they need to break through systemic barriers and reach their full potential. When you sponsor a high school student, you're not just supporting their journey—you’re helping build a more equitable future.
See the Impact of Support:
Hear From Our Students
Watch this video featuring the powerful stories of students whose lives have been transformed by your support.
Your Support Makes This Possible
Thank you for being an essential part of our journey and for making all of this possible. If you’d like to continue helping us expand our reach and support more students in person, consider a donation to Barrier Breakers today to help fund further expansions. Together, we’re transforming lives and creating opportunities nationwide, one connection at a time.