100 Man Welcome Turns Out Largest Group Yet to Cheer on FA Scholars
by Raheem Veal
“Imagine if we had an event like this as kids growing up,” exclaimed a local community leader as he leaned into his colleague’s picture when the day wrapped. His friends, men who also answered the call to be part of the largest turnout in 100 Man Welcome history, nodded and exchanged crisp handshakes. They knew they’d been part of something special.
One of our four core principles at Foundation Academies is support. The annual 100 Man Welcome represents the culmination of community support and collaboration–and this year’s event set the bar even higher. On their 100th day of school, scholars across both campuses were greeted with high fives and with lovingly scribbled signs from 100+ blue collar, white collar, and crew necked men from the Trenton Area community. The collage of fraternity letters, badges, shields, double Windsor ties, and helmets gathered for a common purpose was inspiring.
Some scholars relished the moment by dancing in the sun, some wore confused expressions at all of the ruckus, and still others maintained a cool, neutral exterior. While I observed a variety of reactions during the welcoming committee, poking my head in the classrooms revealed the morning’s true impact: the scholars were buzzing. There was a heightened enthusiasm fueled by seeing their community show up for them–reinforcing what their educators show them everyday: they are seen and worthy.
CEO Sheria McRae is fully aware of how crucial the 100 Man Welcome is to the FA community’s daily work. "The energy, positivity, and love poured into this moment fuels our scholars, staff, and families, giving us the energy we need to keep going,” she said.
With much work to do for equity, Isles Managing Director of Workforce Development Chris Benson showed up because he sees education as the pathway toward continued progress. “I had to show up to be part of the great work Foundation is doing. The only way we can improve our society is through building for the future, which centers around education,” he said.
Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora sees institutions like FA, that consistently facilitate collaboration and civic engagement as the changemakers that will lead us forward. Compelled to speak at the microphone, he shared his view that the country is in a sociopolitical climate that will test our mettle and ability to unite.
“Today we have to battle for the souls of America and for our children. That begins with showing up for them. Foundation Academies is such a haven for kids because of how their educators show up in and outside of the classroom. As a Trentonian, I am proud to be a part of days like this and the transformative work they do,” he said.
View our Photo Gallery from the 100 Man Welcome, tap into our social channels, and stay tuned for more content. A special thanks goes to our sponsors AmeriHealth and Home Rubber.
