COR Members Inspire Middle College Students

Sep 22, 2011

COR volunteers at Midlands Middle College networking event.

When nine COR volunteers agreed to attend in a networking dinner with Midlands Middle College students they gave more than their time. Offering education and career advice, these professionals provided inspiration and encouragement to students once at risk of dropping out. The COR participants came away with something as well -- the reward that comes from paying it forward and making a difference.

COR, or Columbia Opportunity Resource, is an innovative, volunteer-based organization that connects young, talented professionals in the greater Columbia area to diverse and meaningful networks for leadership, service and fun with the ultimate goal of making the region a better place to live, learn, work and play. In the same spirit, Midlands Middle College seeks to better our community by giving promising young people the second chance they need to succeed in education and in life.

Thirty Middle College students participated in the event, held on September 21 and sponsored by the Midlands Regional Education Center. Six students and two professionals were seated at each table, allowing for good conversation and extra helpings of encouragement and inspiration. The stories and advice shared by COR volunteers allowed students to see what is possible for their own futures in terms of continued education and careers.

Thank you to the following COR volunteers for their time and commitment to these students: Jill Areheart, Tao Gao, Greg Hilton, Rachel Parker, Hasan Ross-El, Deonca Shields, Alex Shuler, Katherine Swartz and Khush Tata.

For more information about COR, please visit www.ourcor.org. For more from the Midlands Middle College, please visit www.midlandsmiddlecollege.com.

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