Think Together
Overview
Think Together is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving educational outcomes for students across California. Established in 1994, it has grown into one of the largest providers of after-school programs, offering tutoring and educational enrichment to underserved communities. With headquarters in Santa Ana, California, Think Together works towards narrowing the achievement gap by providing students with academic support and resources they might not receive elsewhere. Through its efforts, the organization has raised significant funds to expand its reach and impact, with a notable increase in public and private partnerships over the years.
Recent Developments
- 2024: Think Together announced an expansion into more urban areas in California, aiming to reach an additional 10,000 students within the next two years. This plan is supported by new funding from recently secured partnerships with tech organizations focusing on digital literacy.
- 2023: The organization received a substantial grant from the California Department of Education to enhance STEM education in low-income areas. This initiative includes new curriculum developments that integrate technology into daily learning practices.
- 2022: Think Together launched a new initiative focused on mental health and wellness for students, partnering with local health organizations to provide resources and support tailored to the needs of students particularly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- 2022: The organization celebrated its 28th anniversary, highlighting a record year of service, reaching over 200,000 students across more than 400 schools in California.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 1994 |
| Headquarters | Santa Ana, California |
| Founders | Randy Barth |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | Not publicly disclosed (as a non-profit) |
| Key Investors | California Department of Education, private donors |
| Industry | Education |
| Number of Employees | Approximately 2,500 |
Early History
Think Together was established in 1994 by Randy Barth, aiming to address the dire need for academic support among students in underperforming schools in the Santa Ana area. Initially starting with just one after-school program serving 54 students, the initiative quickly gained traction. With the assistance of local community leaders and education advocates, Think Together was able to expand its services to more schools, eventually receiving support and funding from the California Department of Education. The organization’s early focus was primarily on providing a safe learning environment after school hours, which later expanded to include comprehensive support in critical areas like reading and math.
Company Profile and Achievements
Think Together operates as an educational non-profit dedicated to leveling the educational playing field. The organization’s business model relies on a combination of public and private funding to deliver after-school programs aimed at enhancing academic performance and closing the achievement gap.
- Curriculum Development: Over the years, Think Together has developed a curriculum that is closely aligned with state standards, ensuring that students not only meet but exceed academic benchmarks.
- Expansion Initiatives: The organization has significantly grown its operations beyond Santa Ana, currently serving students across 400 schools throughout California. This expansion is driven by its ability to secure partnerships and funding from tech companies and government grants.
- Recognition: Think Together's work has garnered national attention, earning accolades for its innovative approach to after-school learning and community involvement.
Current Operations and Market Position
Think Together is currently a leading provider of academic services in the after-school sector, particularly in Los Angeles and surrounding urban areas. It partners with local school districts to offer supplementary educational programs that address key areas such as literacy, numeracy, and more recently, digital literacy and STEM education. The non-profit is regarded as a critical component in California’s educational landscape, helping thousands of students achieve better educational outcomes annually. Recent strategic initiatives include the integration of mental health resources and wellness programs in response to rising concerns over student health due to the pandemic disruptions.
Conclusion
Think Together plays a significant role in the educational landscape of California, notably through its robust programs aimed at narrowing the achievement gap in underserved communities. As the organization continues to expand its services and address new educational challenges, it remains focused on fostering environments where all students have the opportunity to succeed. Looking forward, Think Together is well-positioned to further its impact, thanks to its solid foundation of support from public entities and private partnerships, ensuring it remains effective in meeting the educational needs of the communities it serves.