Tomorrow’s Hope Foundation has raised $3.5 million through the Morning Star Initiative for a Catholic school pilot after-school program, according to a newly-released, first-ever impact report on the charity.
The report highlights the foundation’s investments and growth in Catholic elementary school education in the Long Island region over the past two years, including the after-school program at its MSI pilot school with campuses in Deer Park and Central Islip.
“Thanks to supporters of the MSI, Tomorrow’s Hope Foundation has made vital long-term investments in not only scholarship support, but academic enhancements, technology, marketing, and so much more to help revitalize our Catholic elementary schools,” said Ismini Scouras, executive director of Tomorrow’s Hope Foundation. “As the 501(c)(3) partner supporting MSI, Tomorrow’s Hope Foundation is proud to help ensure these programs are here to stay.”
Our Lady of Guadalupe, the MSI pilot school, saw enrollment rebound in the 2022-23 academic year, according to the report. Its two campuses have held free and dual-language after-care programs, which the report says helped attract an additional 100 students for the upcoming school year. The goal is to bring the program to other Catholic schools throughout Long Island to increase enrollment.
“Since MSI first launched, we have strengthened the academic rigor in our schools and stabilized enrollment despite the challenges that Covid-19 and the economy have presented,” said Bro. Tom Cleary, chief revitalization officer of MSI. “Without donor support, our success to date would never have been possible.”
Tomorrow’s Hope aims to make Catholic school more affordable for the families of grade school students, as well as enhance the educational experience at the schools. Tomorrow’s Hope has teamed up with the Marianists and the Diocese of Rockville Centre’s education department for the MSI schools and after-care programs.
