Bench Mark Program

The Bench Mark Program is a U.S. nonprofit organization focused on empowering at-risk youth through a combination of physical fitness, academic counseling, and career coaching. Founded in 2014, the organization seeks to transform the lives of underserved youth by providing them with a supportive environment and tools to become community leaders.

Mission and Programs

Bench Mark Program utilizes weightlifting as a common bond to engage youth, creating a safe space for them to learn key life skills such as hard work, goal setting, and resilience. The organization offers a range of programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of its students, emphasizing personal growth, academic support, and career development. Key programs include the Open Gym and Student Leadership Program (SLP), both of which rely on donations to operate. Additionally, the organization provides educational trips, personalized career counseling, and access to essential goods like meals and clothing.

Financial Overview

As a nonprofit, Bench Mark Program relies heavily on contributions from donors, which constitute the majority of its revenue. Donations support operational costs, including maintaining facilities, equipment, staff salaries, and programming expenses. Financial transparency is emphasized to ensure donors understand how their contributions are allocated towards providing consistent support to the youth.

Impact

The organization has evolved significantly since its inception, expanding from a small group to serving larger numbers of youth. By fostering mentorship and leadership development, Bench Mark Program aims to build a network of empowered individuals who can positively influence their communities. The organization's model has shown success in engaging youth who may not respond to traditional support systems, providing them with a sense of belonging and support.

Governance and Transparency

Bench Mark Program operates with a focus on transparency, filing annual reports as required by nonprofit regulations. The organization's financial health and governance are maintained through responsible allocation of resources and oversight. Donations to the organization are tax-deductible, supporting its mission to cultivate leaders among underserved youth.