As a means of helping to close the significant achievement gap in education, the Guiding Youth to Careers (GYC) program was developed through the dedication and hard work of the Russell E. Palmer Charitable Trust in partnership with Philadelphia public high schools in 2004. The Palmer Trust provides leadership, support services, education-focused programs, scholarships and financial support to West Philadelphia public high schools and an array of local and other non-profit organizations.

The GYC program at Drexel University matches college students with high school students in mentor- mentee relationships meant to explore college opportunities with the eye on developing achievable goals toward a career. Mentors and mentees meet in person for 1 hour per week over the course of a term or academic year. Currently, the high schools that the GYC has served include: University City High School, West Philadelphia, Sayer High School, and Lamberton High School.

In Winter of 2009, Kristine Lewis of the Drexel School of Education taught a course concerning the effects of segregated schools in the US since Brown v. Board of Education, reflecting upon the legacies and lessons of the landmark decision. A civic engagement project, using the GYC program, was implemented to consider the impact of Brown on Philadelphia Public Schools.

Drexel University’s AmeriCorps*VISTA, Bridget Mason, has devoted her term of service (2008-2009) to building the capacity of the GYC program by enhancing its existing relationships while increasing the number of Universities and High Schools involved.