Heritage Academy, Augusta

For single parents like René Harris of Augusta, hope and opportunity are sometimes hard to spot amidst the daily grind of work and running a household. But for those who imagine a brighter future for their children, the dreams can't be suppressed entirely.

"Nastasia and Cornell were good students before, but it always felt like something was holding them back, like something was missing," said Ms. Harris. "I wanted to be in a place where parents were active and involved in the education."

Having qualified for two $5,800 scholarships from Arete Scholars Fund, Ms. Harris enrolled her children in Augusta's Heritage Academy. The changes were drastic and immediate for Nastasia and Cornell. The siblings are discovering dynamic new learning opportunities and dreaming of new career possibilities. Both are active in an after-school arts program, and Cornell is learning to play the violin. "I like the violin, but I think I want to be a paleontologist," said Cornell. Meanwhile, sister Nastasia is contemplating a career as a dancer, choreographer, "or maybe a doctor, so I can help children."

"It's amazing to hear my children talk like that and have hope that they can reach those goals," said René Harris. "Some groups of people don't advance because they know only one way of life for generations, but thanks to Arete, Heritage is giving my family the opportunity to change that cycle. "

For more information about Heritage Academy, visit them online at http://www.heritageacademyaugusta.org/.