When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
America Needs You
Why America Needs You is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
America Needs You (ANY) is a dedicated national nonprofit organization committed to empowering ambitious, first-generation college students by removing barriers to economic mobility. Since its founding in 2009 by Robert Reffkin, ANY has focused on providing transformative mentorship and intensive career development programs designed to support students from diverse backgrounds as they navigate the challenges of higher education and entering the workforce. The cornerstone of their approach is the two-year Fellows Program, which pairs students with experienced Mentor Coaches for one-on-one mentorship, career readiness workshops, and access to valuable internship opportunities. This holistic support system fosters student retention, graduation, and successful career placement, addressing the disparities in college completion rates between first-generation students and their peers. Operating primarily in major metropolitan areas including New York, New Jersey, Illinois, and California, America Needs You also offers FirstGenU, a digital career development platform available nationwide that helps first-gen students develop job search skills and professional networks remotely. The organization’s vibrant community and collaborative culture create a supportive environment where first-generation college students can grow both personally and professionally, making it an outstanding place for motivated students to connect, learn, and thrive.
Here's what people think of America Needs You
As of recent, America Needs You holds a 5-star rating based on 9 reviews.
User reviews of America Needs You overwhelmingly highlight the organization’s impact on students’ lives through its well-structured mentorship and career development programs. Many reviewers praise the personalized attention provided by Mentor Coaches, noting that one-on-one support helped them gain confidence, navigate college challenges, and successfully transition to the workforce. Positive feedback frequently mentions the career workshops and networking opportunities as essential components that enriched their professional readiness and expanded their access to internships. The supportive peer community also receives accolades for fostering belonging and motivation among fellows. On the other hand, some critiques center on the desire for program expansion beyond current metropolitan areas to reach more students nationwide, as well as requests for more diverse workshop offerings to address a wider range of career interests. Despite these minor concerns, the consensus is that America Needs You delivers meaningful, life-changing mentorship and professional development with a high level of dedication and effectiveness. Overall, reviews reflect strong satisfaction with the organization's commitment to social equity, student empowerment, and impactful career preparation. This positive reputation underpins America Needs You’s role as a trusted and vital resource for first-generation college students aiming to achieve their full potential.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
J O
That's how I feel when I help Wildlife Conservation Society organization by mail ever since Superstorm Sandy after donating $5 in 2012, $10 in 2013, $20 in 2014, $35 in 2015, $173.64 in 2016, $207.37 in 2017, & now for 2018 is $45.06. That's dedication right there. Since Maria Estrada works there since she's an old friend of mine back at P.S.58 in the 3rd grade, she's dedicating for America Needs You just like me for Wildlife Conservation Society organization by mail as a dedication too because now Maria Estrada & I have something SUPER MEGAFORCE common.
Rahim Salhi
The best place for first generation high achieving students to receive a comprehensive career development support. Everyone is willing to help you for success in your school and professional career. The staffs are very caring and supportive, I consider them as s family, could not ask for more.
SAHALI NASSER
I'm intressted To join the organisations
Abhishek Kempanna
Balle 2
How to reach America Needs You
None
Website: None
Why America Needs You may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at America Needs You with your friends? America Needs You (ANY) is not just a nonprofit organization; it’s a dynamic hub of empowerment and connection that makes it an ideal gathering place for groups seeking to make a meaningful impact together. Rallying here with friends means engaging in a shared experience of support for first-generation college students, a community that represents over half of all college students in the U.S., who often navigate challenging educational and career landscapes without the traditional guidance many take for granted. Together, your group can embody a spirit of collective uplift, fostering an environment of inspiration and hope. America Needs You offers a unique blend of mentorship, career development, and community building, allowing everyone involved to witness personal transformation and growth firsthand. This shared journey not only strengthens bonds among friends but also connects each participant to a larger mission of breaking the cycle of poverty through education and career readiness. Rallying here means contributing to a cause that truly changes lives while enjoying a purposeful and warm environment perfect for meaningful group activities.
What activities does America Needs You offer for group meetups? America Needs You specializes in intensive career development and mentorship programs tailored specifically for ambitious first-generation college students. Their signature program, the two-year Fellows Program, pairs students with dedicated Mentor Coaches who guide them in navigating the transition from college to career through personalized, one-on-one mentorship. Groups visiting or volunteering with ANY can participate in workshops that teach essential skills such as job searching, interview techniques, leadership development, and resilience building. The organization also offers FirstGenU, a digital career development platform, where students engage with interactive online modules and virtual enrichment events focused on workplace readiness and networking opportunities. For a group meetup, this translates into opportunities to attend or help facilitate skill-building sessions, participate in networking mixers, and collaborate on activities that connect fellows with professional mentors. These structured yet engaging activities provide meaningful ways for friends or family to bond while contributing to the empowerment of first-generation college students.
Why is America Needs You perfect for a group meetup? The collaborative spirit of America Needs You makes it a natural fit for groups looking for more than just a casual get-together. The organization’s environment encourages learning, mentorship, and community-building, which inherently cultivates meaningful conversations and shared experiences. Hosting a meetup here means your group can engage in activities that build not only professional skills but also personal connections among members and with the Fellows. The space and programs are designed to foster belonging and support, creating a warm atmosphere where every participant—whether a student, mentor, volunteer, or friend—feels included and valued. Additionally, the staff’s dedication and passion for the mission translate into a welcoming and inspiring setting, ideal for groups that want to rally around a positive cause. The organization’s strong track record, evidenced by a perfect 5.0 rating from reviews, underscores its commitment to excellence and impact, enhancing the experience of any group event.
How does America Needs You support first-generation college students? America Needs You’s core mission is to transform the lives of first-generation college students—those who are the first in their families to attend college—by providing them with the mentorship, resources, and career development opportunities they need to succeed. The typical challenges these students face include limited access to professional networks, lack of personalized guidance, and fewer role models familiar with navigating higher education and career paths. ANY’s two-year Fellows Program directly addresses these gaps by pairing each student with a Mentor Coach who provides tailored advice, encouragement, and practical guidance. Through peer cohorts, workshops, and one-to-one mentorship, the program builds both career readiness skills and a powerful community of support. Furthermore, the FirstGenU digital platform expands this reach nationally by offering self-paced career development content and virtual events, ensuring accessibility and broad impact. By supporting these young people, ANY is building a more equitable workforce and creating pathways to economic mobility.
What makes the staff and leadership at America Needs You unique? The team behind America Needs You is composed of deeply committed professionals with longstanding experience in nonprofit leadership and a shared passion for social impact. For instance, CEO Alicia Guevara brings over 30 years of nonprofit experience and a personal connection to the mission as a first-generation college graduate herself. The staff combines expertise in education, career mentoring, and community engagement, fostering an organizational culture that’s both compassionate and results-driven. This dedication is palpable in the way they create programs that truly resonate with students’ needs and in the inclusive, supportive atmosphere they cultivate for all participants. Staff members often share that working at ANY is more than a job—it’s a meaningful mission to uplift others, which translates into high-quality programming and a welcoming environment. The enthusiasm and professionalism of the team ensure that group gatherings at ANY are not only enjoyable but profoundly impactful experiences.
How can groups participate or volunteer at America Needs You? America Needs You actively welcomes volunteers and group participation, offering numerous ways for communities, friends, and families to get involved. Volunteers can lead workshops, support virtual events, or participate as mentors, all of which contribute directly to the development and success of first-generation college students. Group meetups can be organized around these volunteer activities, creating a shared purpose while allowing members to learn and grow together. Additionally, groups can help organize or attend career development sessions, networking mixers, and mentorship training, adding value to both the Fellows and the volunteers themselves. This engagement provides opportunities to connect with inspiring young leaders and professionals while giving back meaningfully. America Needs You’s flexible volunteer options and clear impact make it an excellent choice for groups wanting a socially responsible and enriching meetup experience.
What kind of impact does America Needs You create in the community? The impact of America Needs You extends well beyond individual mentorship; it creates ripple effects in families, workplaces, and communities by empowering first-generation college students to achieve sustainable career success. Alumni of the Fellows Program have reported gaining confidence, expanding their professional networks, securing meaningful internships and jobs, and ultimately breaking cycles of poverty within their families. The organization’s work contributes to diversifying the workforce by increasing access to opportunities usually unavailable to first-generation students. Celebrated in major media for driving economic mobility, ANY is transforming lives through demonstrated mentorship and career readiness approaches. Bringing your friends to rally at America Needs You means being part of a movement that not only changes individual trajectories but also promotes broader social equity and economic inclusion.
How does America Needs You foster community and belonging among its participants? At America Needs You, community is both a method and a goal. The organization fosters belonging by grouping Fellows into peer cohorts where students share experiences, challenges, and successes in a supportive setting. This peer community reduces feelings of isolation common among first-generation students and strengthens motivation. Mentorship relationships further enhance this sense of connection by offering consistent emotional and professional support. The emphasis on group workshops, networking events, and shared learning experiences creates an environment where everyone feels valued and understood. For groups visiting or volunteering together, this spirit of community provides a powerful backdrop encouraging dialogue, empathy, and collaboration, making ANY a vibrant place for collective growth and friendship.
What resources are available for career development at America Needs You? America Needs You offers extensive resources focused on career preparedness tailored specifically to the unique needs of first-generation college students. These include hands-on workshops teaching job search strategies, resume and cover letter writing, interview preparation, and workplace communication skills. The Fellows Program includes leadership training and resilience coaching, equipping students with vital tools for career success. Additionally, the FirstGenU digital career institute provides an accessible, self-paced online platform for students nationwide, expanding reach and flexibility. Regular virtual enrichment events introduce Fellows to networking opportunities and professional role models across various industries. For groups meeting at ANY, these resources open up opportunities to engage in skill-building activities or collaborate on career development initiatives, enriching the experience for everyone involved.
Why is America Needs You highly rated by participants and volunteers? America Needs You maintains a stellar 5.0 rating with glowing reviews praising its dedicated staff, impactful programs, and inclusive culture. Participants often highlight how the mentorship and career coaching offered by ANY have been life-changing, providing clarity and confidence to pursue ambitious career goals. Volunteers and staff consistently commend the organization’s mission-driven atmosphere and the genuine commitment to nurturing each student’s potential. Strong leadership and continuous program innovation contribute to a supportive environment where students and supporters feel genuinely valued. The organization’s success in sustaining meaningful relationships and measurable outcomes is reflected in the positive feedback from alumni, volunteers, and partners alike. This reputation makes ANY a trusted and inspiring destination for group meetups centered on community service and personal growth.
What makes America Needs You an inspirational venue for friends or family meetups? America Needs You is uniquely positioned as a venue that transcends typical meetup locations by combining social interaction with purposeful, mission-driven engagement. Meeting here allows friends or family to experience the joy of contributing to a transformative cause while sharing quality time in an environment filled with hope, ambition, and mutual support. The blend of professional development workshops, mentorship activities, and community-building events offers diverse ways to interact meaningfully. Your group will leave inspired, having engaged with remarkable students and mentors whose resilience and determination uplift everyone involved. The positive energy, commitment to equity, and focus on breaking barriers make ANY not just a venue, but a movement your group can rally behind—strengthening bonds through collective action and shared values. This makes it an unparalleled choice for meetups that matter.