CISM’s proudest and most memorable annual tradition, the Pathways to Success Celebration, is now only two weeks away. Over the past several years, we’ve had the honor of recognizing and rewarding nearly 200 high school seniors as they prepare for the first steps in pursuit of their post-graduation goals.

Formerly known as the College Trunk Party up until 2022, the Pathways to Success Celebration has become a true demonstration of our commitment to surrounding our students with a community of support. Thanks to incredible support from our community partners and individual CISM donors, the event has grown every year, both in size and impact. This year, CISM will celebrate 125 graduating seniors for all they’ve overcome and accomplished in school and life – roughly twice as many students who participated just a couple of years ago.

Previously, the event had only involved college-bound students, but CISM expanded the vision when it became the Pathways to Success Celebration in 2023 by inviting all graduating seniors in the College & Career Readiness Program. Most of these students have been involved in CISM programming for several years, working with dedicated support specialists in their schools who have amplified their potential by connecting them to caring adults and personalized community resources to overcome obstacles in life and stay in school.

CISM has been fortunate to raise nearly $50,000 in donations over the past two years, including sponsorships from Workforce Mid-South, The Burroughs Foundation, Memphis City Council, Memphis Athletic Ministries, and the Boys & Girls Club. The donations help provide each student with a kit filled with much-needed supplies for their chosen post-secondary pathway, such as laptops, linens, and dorm supplies for our college-bound students, professional accessories, and office supplies for those entering a career field, and personal items for comfort and safety for students committed to the armed forces.

In addition to the kits, CISM staff, Board members, and community partners attend each year and share words of encouragement. Students also have the opportunity to sign up for the CISM Alumni Network for continued support and to help increase CISM’s impact by sharing their experiences with future students.

CISM will celebrate the achievements of 125 high school graduates at the 2024 Pathways to Success Celebration on June 6th, 2024, and we invite you to join us in sponsoring a student. Let’s make a difference together!