Launched in 2017 in partnership with KIPP Academy of Opportunity, the WACO Angels and Warriors mentorship program supports student success from eighth grade, through high school graduation.
Each spring semester, a cohort of rising eighth grade students are selected to participate in the program, based on their academic, social, emotional and skills-based needs to maintain a pathway for success.
“Mentored youth are 55% more likely to be enrolled in college than those who do not have a mentor.”
Throughout each year, participants receive visits from guest speakers across various industries and career paths, participate in interactive skills building workshops and attend first-time art and cultural experiences. Each intervention is utilized to grow the personal, academic and socio-emotional wellness of participants, supported throughout with mentorship.
“Mentored youth are 81% more likely to report participating regularly in extracurricular activities outside of class.”
WACO empowers each participant to identify their dreams, and with a support of a mentor, gain the clarity, discipline and skill to achieve their dreams.
For more information about the mentorship program or to volunteer your time, please contact our Director of Education.
Cohort ‘21 | Updates
Congratulations to our 2025 high school graduates!
To our graduates, Class of 2025!
We’ve been cheering you on since your 8th-grade days, are bursting with pride. We’ve watched you blossom, overcome challenges, and consistently strive for excellence in South LA and beyond. Seeing your hard work culminate in this graduation is truly inspiring.
As you embark on your next chapter, remember the strength, intelligence, and vibrant spirit that defines you. The lessons learned within the WACO community and the bonds you’ve forged will serve as your foundation. Go out and shape the world with your unique talents and perspectives.
We, your mentors and WACO supporters are here for you always. Congratulations, Class of 2025! The future is yours!
Anaiah Griffin
Cal State Dominguez Hills
De’Asia Hood
Southern University
Diore Parker
Southern University
Megan Smith
Grambling University
Mylah Moore
Southern University
Tarryn White
North Carolina A&T
Alexander McDaniels
University of Southern CA
Cohort ‘24 | Updates
Meet our newest mentorship class from KIPP Academy of Opportunity.
Cohort ‘20 | Updates
Congratulations to our 2024 high school graduates!
This cohort joined us in 2020, just before the global pandemic. We admire each of them for their fortitude, resilience and perseverance through the years.
We’re so proud of everything they’ve accomplished, and as they enter the next phase of their journey this fall, we wish them endless success, growth, and new adventures. Congratulations!
Help us cheer them on into their future.
Anai Avila
LAUSD IB Program
Anthony Vargas
UC San Diego
Aurora Oviedo
CSU Fullerton
Damarion Tyler
Paine College
De’Asia Hood
CSU East Bay
Diamond Maxent
CSU Northridge
Dylan Howard
Alabama State University
Ejetta Yolanda Peterson
United States Navy
Geniyah Marshall
Arizona State University
Grace Omolade Williams
University of New Mexico
Keon Presswood
US Military
Logan Cox
CSU Northridge
Micah Norris
Hampton University
Quimari Shemwell
University of Utah
Rian Scott
Los Angeles Trade Technical-College
Other Program Highlights
New Year Game Night
January 2025
To kick off the 2025 year, we gathered mentee cohorts, alumni and mentors for the ultimate game night challenge.
End of Year Celebration
July 2024
Each year we gather to celebrate the accomplishments of our mentorship cohorts. We provide special appreciation to the 8th grade cohort headed to high school, and a special send-off ceremony for our graduating seniors.
The 2024 celebration took place at Santa Monica Beach.
Films For Teens By Teens
Utilizing film as a tool for self-expression, communication, and mental health awareness, this program is offered to students across Greater Los Angeles. Participants have the opportunity to develop their voices, learn about themselves, and ultimately elevate and empower their stories through filmmaking. This program is supported in part by AT&T, Horowitz Family Foundation, Shea Moisture and WarnerMedia
Passion Day
March 2023
The annual opportunity to begin dream building. The 8th grade cohort spend time researching, interviewing and learning about different careers and path of opportunity.
On this day, participants come together and share their passion.
Sponsor a Young Person
As a supporter of our education programs, your gifts provide high-quality offerings including mentoring and skill development programs for young people. Consider a gift of any size to ensure WACO continues this life-changing work.
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