Causes: Children & Youth, Human Services, Personal Social Services, Youth Development

Mission: Self Enhancement, Inc. is dedicated to guiding underserved youth to realize their potential. Working with schools, families, and community organizations, SEI provides opportunities for personal and academic success, bringing hope to individual young people and enhancing the quality of community life. In 2006, there were over 2300 children enrolled in SEI's programs that help inner-city students overcome barriers to success and close the achievement gap. SEI works with students from age 8 to 25 in eleven Portland Public Schools, in after school and summer programs, in its own charter middle school, and in entering and succeeding college. SEI involves parents in supporting their children's education and partners with over 60 community organizations to provide options and exposure. Recognized by the prestigious Edna McConnell Clark Foundation as one of the most effective youth development organizations in the nation, SEI helps instill in thousands of North and Northeast Portland youth a sense of pride, integrity, creativity, and options. Over two-thirds of SEI participants improve school attendance, grades and behavior. An average of 98% of SEI's high school freshmen graduate four years later and 85% of those go on to college, often the first in their family to do so. SEI's motto is LIFE HAS OPTIONS.

Results: 98% of SEI students graduate from HS85% of SEI students pursue higher education 100% of SEI Parents complete Parent Skill Building ClassesSEI serves 7,500 youth and families

Target demographics: Underserved youth and families

Geographic areas served: Northeast and North Portland, East County Portland

Programs: Community and Family After SchoolIn-SchoolSummerPost Secondary (Post High School) SEI Charter School (The Academy)Sports ProgramThe Arts ProgramCounseling Program