Join Our Program

It All Starts Here.

The transition from eighth grade to high school can be tough—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Project OneTen is here to support you every step of the way. Our year-long Freshman Success Program is designed for Black and Latino boys who are ready to take on new challenges and grow as students and young leaders.

High school brings new expectations, and success doesn’t happen by chance—it takes commitment. That’s why we provide leadership workshops, academic coaching, college and career exploration, and real-world experiences to help you build confidence and stay on track. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by success coaches and peers who challenge you to be your best and help you navigate the ups and downs of freshman year.

Are you ready to level up? Join us for the upcoming school year and see how Project OneTen can help you unlock new opportunities, build lasting relationships, and set the foundation for success in high school and beyond. Apply now and take the first step toward your future!

“Being a part of Project OneTen has been a great opportunity to take a step outside of my comfort zone and learn new things alongside my success coach."

-Adam, Cohort 2 Student

“Our work is laser focused on freshman year and launching your student into high school with a strong foundation!”

-Dirrick Butler, Founder & Executive Director

Who is eligible for Project OneTen?

  • Students who identify as a Black or Latino male

  • 8th grade students who will enter high school during the 2025-26 school year

  • Students who plan to attend a CPS high school (including public charter schools)

  • Students who can fully commit to a year long rigorous academic and leadership development program

  • Students who have above a 2.5 GPA

What makes our program different?

While there are many mentorship organizations for boys of color in Chicago, we recognize that not all Black and Latino boys are the same, and should not be forced to “fit” into a one-dimensional definition of “manhood.” To be honest, we don’t even use that language. It’s not our focus. We work intentionally to create a space where our students feel safe to self determine a future of their design, and engage with a diverse group of people exposing them to new possibilities. Building a solid foundation during freshman year is important, and we simply want to partner with our students, and share a few things that we’ve learned to help them reach their goals. Although we require a commitment to our program, we provide space for our students to try new things, engage in hobbies and activities, and even play sports, all while having their new community rooting for them every step of the way.

Hear from one of our students!

Mentorship is the cornerstone of our work. Every student is paired with a dedicated success coach that supports them throughout the school year. Donyale, a member of our third cohort, reflects on his relationship with his coach Stacey, and his favorite moments in the Project OneTen program.

Ready to join Project OneTen?

Before you begin your application, check out some of the program information below.

Program Benefits
What you can expect from us.

  • Targeted social, emotional, and academic support and resources

  • Engaging & culturally relevant monthly workshops and events that center our community and your development

  • Supportive community of caring adults and peers who encourage you to engage outside of your comfortzone to enhance maximum growth

  • A quality coaching relationship with a dedicated young professional of color

  • Responsive community to your needs, goals, and expectations

Program Commitments
What we need from you.

  • Regularly attend and fully participate in monthly Freshman Success Workshops and events

  • Meaningfully engage with your success coach at least for 4-5 hours a month (including monthly workshops)

  • Consistently schedule and participate in weekly academic coaching sessions

  • Submit quarterly academic progress reports

  • Practice academic excellence by giving your very best when you can 

Program Dates

Our monthly Saturday workshops are a key component of our program. Once enrolled in our program, you will receive a program calendar with workshop dates from August 2025 to June 2026. Students are only permitted to miss 2 workshop sessions throughout the year.

As a program participant, students are expected to attend each workshop and engage with their coaches regularly between these workshops.

Once enrolled, both students and parents are required to attend our New Student Orientation on Saturday, August 2, 2025. (More information to come.)

Program Application

Our student application is currently open until May 17, 2025! If you have any questions, please reach out to Adrian Villarreal - adrian@projectoneten.org