(Campaign Progress: $43,012 Raised on $200,000 Goal)
It's relatively rare that we get to see a relationship blossom like the one between Malik and Kanye. While many of our tutors build strong relationships with their students, this one is special. When Kanye was recently invited to celebrate the release of Malik's new book at our Book Release Party, he was thrilled. In every photo we have of Malik, Kanye is by his tutor's side. That's why we featured Malik on Reach's 2018 holiday card. When he found out we did so, Malik's response: "Man, I'm really getting famous."
For two years, Malik has given his all to his young student. He brings exceptional patience and ensures that Kanye gets the support he needs during every tutoring session. But, Malik's experience as a tutor has helped him, too. He has learned what it means to be part of a community. He's become a better student and a better friend.
And that's what showed in a meaningful way last week. Needing to address, stuff, stamp, and seal several hundred holiday cards, we invited some tutors to help. They were offered either a little bit of cash or community service hours, and several tutors immediately responded. Malik was one of them.
But, twenty minutes later, we got another text. "I'm not going to make it to the office to help out. [One of my peers] is struggling with some things, and she could use the money more than me. She is supposed to watch her brothers, so I'm going to do that so she can come."
We're so proud of the young man he's becoming. #AlwaysThere