Guide Right

 In order to serve young men between ages 5 and 25, the mission of the Guide Right Committee is to promote the goals, aims, and objectives of the fraternity in a manner that is consistent with and appropriate for our targeted audiences. To uphold the original charge of Guide Right and to incorporate the necessary tools which will enable our youth to adapt to today's changing landscape and environment, we are committed to fostering an environment of growth, learning, and development.

The Columbia (SC) Alumni Chapter has, since its chartering date, engaged in uplifting the community and the youth. What started with a commitment to provide a single $50 academic scholarship has grown to multiple initiatives and scholarship awards of different amounts to deserving youth in the community.

Founded with a vision to make a difference, the initial goal of the Guide Right Committee was modest yet impactful. A single $50 academic scholarship served as the cornerstone of our commitment to education and youth development. This scholarship was symbolic of our dedication to investing in the future of our community's young men.

As the years progressed, our mission and reach expanded significantly. Recognizing the ever-evolving challenges faced by young men, the Guide Right Committee began to develop a variety of initiatives designed to address these challenges head-on. We introduced mentorship programs, leadership workshops, and community service projects that not only provided academic support but also fostered personal growth and civic responsibility.

The single $50 scholarship grew into a robust scholarship program that awards varying amounts to deserving youth. These scholarships are now a testament to our ongoing commitment to education. Our scholarship recipients have gone on to attend prestigious universities, pursue diverse career paths, and become leaders in their communities.

Mentorship is at the heart of our mission. By pairing young men with mentors who can provide guidance, support, and inspiration, we aim to create a positive and lasting impact. Our leadership development programs are tailored to nurture the inherent potential within each young man, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to lead effectively.

The Lunch Buddy Mentoring Program began in 2015 under the dedicated direction of Mrs. Clarkson, who was serving as our Parent Educator at the time. This mentoring partnership was initiated to address a crucial need at our school for young men to witness and interact with role models who resembled them—intelligent, successful, and highly educated individuals.

A remarkable partnership was established with the Columbia Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. Brothers from this esteemed chapter visit Joseph A. Keels Elementary School every 3rd Thursday of the month. During lunchtime, they share a wealth of knowledge with a select group of 4th and 5th grade male students. This initiative aims to inspire and guide these young minds, fostering an environment of academic and personal growth.

The selection process for the program is robust and meaningful. The 4th grade students are chosen by their teachers based on certain criteria, while the 5th grade students are grandfathered into the program, ensuring continuity and sustained mentorship.

At the end of each school year, the Kappa brothers organize an educational outing for the group, providing an opportunity for the students to learn and explore beyond the classroom. This tradition has been a cornerstone of the program for over 11 years, with the Columbia (SC) Alumni Chapter consistently engaging with Joseph A. Keels Elementary School.

In the 2024/25 school year, the chapter has gone above and beyond by providing elementary students with essential school supplies and backpacks, snacks, books, and, most importantly, dedicated mentors. These mentors play a pivotal role in motivating the students' academic achievements and encouraging their overall growth.

Currently, there are sixteen 4th and 5th graders participating in the Lunch Buddy Mentoring Program. This initiative not only supports the students' educational journey but also instills in them the values of perseverance, ambition, and the importance of having positive role models.

The Lunch Buddy Mentoring Program stands as a testament to the power of community and the impact of mentorship. It continues to nurture and inspire the young minds at Joseph A. Keels Elementary, paving the way for a brighter future.