New Expectations
The distance between hope and reality is often not a gulf but a step.
Three graduates of Root 2 Rise are takingnext step intheir remarkable journey, thanks to the Odyssey Project, which makes continuing education possible for those for whom college seems out of reach.
Emily Auerbach, the indefatiguable executive director and co-founder of the program for 23 years,, said.Odyssey has helped more than 500 students, most of whom were told they “weren’t really college material,” and who haave subsequently overcome daunting handicaps such as poverty, homelessness, and learning disorders
“I didn’t expect the experience to be so great. It opened doors that I thought were completely,” said Alisha Taylor, who was a “single mother with four kids and no money” when she participated in Odyssey11 years ago.” “It changed my outlook on life.”
Denise Hanson, founder and executive director of Root 2 Rise, urged Alisha’a daughter, Shaneece Taylor,to apply to Odyssey’s 2026 class. She was among the 30 (of 150 applicants) selected.
“I’m excited to see where this leads,” she sai, but believes it will be invaluable in her work helping homeless youth (a career choice she attributes to Root 2 Rise).
Odyssey also offers programs for youth, seniors, graduates of Odyssey, and the incarcerated Auerbach says the need exceeds capacity, She tries to help all who apply however, by assisting them directly or linking them with other sources of help.
Auerbach is discouraged and appalled” by reduced government support for Odyssey and similar prgarms. Although such action “is an attack on every value I have,” Aeurbach said it won’t deter her and other supporters.
Alisha participates in an Odyssey alumni program and has encouraged her mother to join a program for seniors Shaneece’s daughter participates in Odyssey Junior, which means Odyssey’ might enrich the lives of four generations.
“We’re delighted to work in a community that offers programs such as Odyssey,” Hanson said. “Combined with our thrive program, they ensure that the optimism and values fostered in Root 2 Risel can lead to rewarding careers and purposeful lives.”