Project Compass - Build a dataset

PEAK seeks support with Project Compass, a new initiative to measure and strengthen our long-term impact. We want to build an accurate and complete alumni dataset so we can track outcomes, demonstrate results to funders, and stay connected with graduates.

PEAK’s mission is to open doors for Chicago youth through full-tuition scholarships and one-to-one mentorship. We know our model works—every scholar who completes the program graduates high school—but we need stronger alumni data to show the long-term impact.

This project will give us the ability to track where our graduates go, whether to college, trades, or the workforce, and how mentorship continues to shape their lives. With accurate alumni information, we can tell powerful stories to funders, connect alumni back as mentors and donors, and refine our program to better serve future scholars.

Your work will directly support hundreds of young people by helping PEAK secure the resources and knowledge needed to grow, sustain, and deepen our impact.

We have leadership and staff fully committed to Project Compass, and we are ready to put your work into action. Our team has already:

Gained board and staff buy-in on the importance of alumni data.

Collected all current alumni records into a central file, which we will share with you.

Identified specific gaps (college enrollment, graduation, employment, contact details) so the project can move forward with clear priorities.

Allocated staff time to support data gathering and ensure continuity after the project ends.

The outcomes of this project will directly feed into our fundraising and program evaluation efforts. We will use the validated alumni data in grant reports, donor materials, and internal planning. We are prepared to maintain the system and processes you help us design so that this work creates lasting value.