SEED has built a community that prepares hundreds of young people to succeed in college and beyond. Our teachers, counselors, advisors, residential staff, parents, and donors are bedrocks of our community, empowering our students to own their educational journeys.
SEED donors are some of our most valuable community members. This holiday season, we are highlighting a few key supporters who help make our work possible.
Karen Kaub has been a SEED supporter since 2006. After coming across a small article in the Washington Post about SEED’s positive track record, Karen was hooked. As a former teacher and boarding school student herself, she felt a personal connection to SEED. We recently spoke to Karen about why she continues to support SEED and to help our students and graduates grow.
Why do you support SEED?
When I started supporting SEED, a friend of mine questioned why I didn’t support a larger organization. They felt SEED only helped a small percentage of youth.
I choose to support SEED because I like the idea of helping to create role models. If someone from a challenging background succeeds at SEED, they will serve as a role model for other students that face barriers to college success. An excellent education should be available to everyone, not just privileged individuals.
What attracted you to SEED?
I suppose that most people select their charity of choice based on what has happened to them personally. As an elementary school student, I aced my studies. My Sunday school teacher saw my potential and recommended that my parents enroll me at a private school that would provide more of an academic challenge. Once enrolled in my new school, I went from being the first in my class to failing almost every test. It was an emotional shock.
I realized then what a difference an excellent school can make for a young person. SEED does a great job of providing students who have a desire to work hard with the opportunities they need to excel. For some, this opportunity can mean the difference between success and slipping through the cracks.
Why do you think SEED’s boarding component is important?
I went to a boarding school when I was in high school. I learned discipline—when to clean my room, when to study, and when to complete my homework. It helped me become totally organized.
When I visited SEED about ten years ago, I saw this same discipline being taught and was really impressed. The students had so much pride.
I also understand that boarding schools can serve as a tremendous support for families who work late hours or aren’t familiar with the college access process. Because SEED’s students are there for 24 hours per day, they have a teacher or staff person who can help with their homework after hours, residential staff to share personal problems, and the right supportive environment to thrive.
Anything you want to add?
SEED’s model is working—it’s a wonderful concept. Not only do you have the nurturing boarding environment, but you reach out to your students after they graduate to ensure they have the support they need to complete college. I am proud to say I support SEED and wish it could be replicated in more cities.