About Our Organization
Learn more about our mission, vision, and the team behind 1ST STEP 2 RECOVERY INC.
Our Principal
John Cooper
Principal & Founder
With over 20 years of experience in community service and educational advocacy, John Cooper founded 1ST STEP 2 RECOVERY INC to address the systemic barriers facing children in Albany, GA. His journey began as a local educator, where he witnessed firsthand the impact of financial hardship on a child's potential.
Organizational Framework
1. Social Problem & Community Need
In Albany, GA, a significant percentage of children live below the poverty line, leading to high dropout rates and limited educational resources. Data from local school districts shows that financial barriers are the primary reason for academic underperformance.
2. Core Mission
To provide every child with the educational resources and financial support needed to achieve their full potential and break the cycle of poverty.
3. Long-term Vision (5-10 Years)
To become a leading educational support network in Georgia, ensuring that 100% of children in our target communities have access to quality education and higher learning opportunities.
4. SMART Goals (1-3 Years)
Support 500 students with full tuition assistance, establish 3 community learning centers, and achieve a 95% school attendance rate among our beneficiaries by 2028.
5. Target Beneficiaries
Primary: Children aged 5-18 from low-income families in Albany, GA. Secondary: Families and local educators who support these children.
6. Key Programs & Activities
Tuition Assistance Program, After-school Tutoring, Digital Literacy Workshops, and Community Outreach Journeys.
7. Theory of Change
Input (Donations/Volunteers) → Activities (Tutoring/Support) → Output (Better Grades/Attendance) → Long-term Impact (Economic Independence/Community Growth).
8. KPIs for Success
Number of students supported, average GPA improvement, attendance rates, and volunteer retention percentage.
9. Monitoring & Evaluation
Quarterly academic reviews, monthly family feedback sessions, and annual impact reports using standardized data collection tools.
10. Operational Structure
Led by Principal John Cooper, supported by a Board of Directors, Program Managers, and a dedicated team of 15 staff members and 50+ volunteers.
11. Volunteer Strategy
Comprehensive training programs, mentorship opportunities, and recognition events to ensure high engagement and retention.
12. Resources & Technology
Utilizing cloud-based management systems for student tracking and digital platforms for remote tutoring and fundraising.
13. Financial Model
Initial funding through private grants and community crowdfunding, moving towards corporate partnerships and recurring donor programs.
14. Sustainability Plan
Building an endowment fund and developing social enterprise initiatives to ensure long-term financial independence.
15. Risk Management
Mitigating financial risks through diversified funding and operational risks through rigorous staff training and safety protocols.
16. Stories from our Principal
"I remember a young boy named Marcus who couldn't afford his school books. Today, with our support, he is the first in his family to attend college. This is why we do what we do." - John Cooper