As March Madness approaches, Fayetteville Manlius A Better Chance (FMABC) is hosting a challenge of its own. We are looking for local companies to join our support team!

Who we are and what we do:
The mission of FMABC is simple. Education is empowerment. We provide academically talented and motivated young women of color from underserved urban areas a chance to overcome obstacles and enhance their potential for achievement through a challenging educational experience and a supportive residential
environment.

Scholars apply to this game-changing program in the hope of securing a better future. Over the program’s 48 years in Manlius, we have seen young women change the course of their lives. They have broken down racial barriers and socioeconomic stereotypes and discovered that their lives have opportunities never thought possible. They attend college, pursue careers, become successful members of society and thereby lead the way for others to follow.

How we do it:
During their four years here, FMABC scholars live in the program residence. The program provides all living expenses, supervision and all aspects of college preparatory academic support for the 10 months of the school year. We function much like a boarding school, minus the tuition. Scholars receive numerous personal, social and cultural enrichment opportunities. Each scholar is supported by staff, board members, an academic advisor and two local host families, as well as counselors and teachers at FM High School.

How does FMABC contribute to the local community?
The scholars are leaders among their peers. As Katherine Gross, FM History Teacher, said, “In the classroom, I always value the fresh perspective that ABC scholars bring to our discussions. ABC students bring attention to the value of diversity, as well as give voice to the difficulties encountered in other communities and cultures.” Ben Clardy, FM English teacher added, “I remember each (scholar) as an example of what is the best in a student: willingness to learn, willingness to share and the ability to adapt to a new place.”

What are FMABC alumnae doing today?
After attending such colleges and universities as Cornell, Wesleyan, Amherst, Colgate, Notre Dame, Mount Holyoke, Villanova, Boston College, Wellesley, Emory, Syracuse University, and the University of Rochester, our almost 100 alumnae hold professional positions as teachers, doctors, engineers, social workers, and businesswomen. “The experience transformed my life as it launched my educational legacy,” said Dr. Tammy Rosado (’84). Dr. Annette Miles(’85) said, “I can honestly say that I would not be where I am today without the assistance of the caring people who reached out to me years ago in Manlius, NY.”

How you and your business can help:
Although FMABC is a member program of national ABC, we are financially independent. Our board members are
all volunteers. Our annual budget of $100,000 is met by contributions from individuals, corporations, businesses,
foundations, and local churches. It costs $16,000 per scholar per year to achieve our mission.

Thank you for considering joining our team and pledging to support our scholars so we can continue to provide these young women A Better Chance! Your sponsorship will be recognized in our community newsletter, FMABC events, our website and Facebook page. For more information, visit us at: www.fmabetterchance.org.
Suggested giving:
Sweet 16 – $1600
Elite 8 – $3200
Final 4 – $4800
Championship – $6400