FirstEnergy Foundation Helps New Jersey Students SOAR

The FirstEnergy Foundation is playing a pivotal role in providing an academic pathway for underserved students in Morris County, New Jersey, through its generous support of Table of Hope. 

The foundation recently awarded the local nonprofit a $5,000 grant to enhance its Student Outreach and Academic Reinforcement (SOAR) program, which is designed to uplift students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, by offering targeted tutoring and mentoring. 

The support from the FirstEnergy Foundation helps facilitate educational opportunities that empower students to reach their full potential. The multi-step program begins in the fifth grade, providing essential tutoring services that offer students and their families comprehensive support.

This includes expert collaboration with tutors and monthly family dinners focused on building communication skills, assisting with homework and connecting families to valuable resources. Unlike many programs that pause during the summer months, SOAR continues its efforts with the Summer Bridge initiative.  

“The grant from the FirstEnergy Foundation is essential for our SOAR program. It allows us to connect students with caring mentors and tailored educational resources, ensuring they receive the support they need to thrive,” said Teresa Williams, Table of Hope’s Executive Director. “Partners like FirstEnergy are invaluable to our mission, helping us strengthen families and foster a caring community.”

The SOAR program also addresses summer learning loss by providing consistent support in math and language arts, while also promoting leadership and civic development. Engaging field trips and fun activities keep students motivated and excited about learning during their break. 

Building on initial success, students are invited to participate in the SOAR Leadership Academy, a 10-week program that invites sixth, seventh, and eighth graders who were part of the fifth-grade tutoring effort. Here, they strengthen their leadership skills, delve into personal aspirations, and start thinking about college, all while engaging with community leaders on pressing social issues. 

In addition, those graduating from middle school can access the SOAR College Access Program (SOAR CAP), which prepares high school students for the transition to higher education. This program provides critical resources like essay writing classes and guidance on financial aid applications, primarily benefiting students who will be the first in their families to pursue post-secondary education.  

FirstEnergy’s President for New Jersey Doug Mokoid emphasized the importance of supporting such initiatives and said, “It is all too easy to take for granted the educational opportunities we have in New Jersey.

“Many families in our communities need additional assistance to maximize these opportunities, and Table of Hope provides that vital support,” Mokoid said. “We’re proud to collaborate with them to help build a stronger, brighter future for our communities.” 

This grant marks the fourth consecutive year that the FirstEnergy Foundation has supported Table of Hope, demonstrating a long-term commitment to strengthening local families and fostering community resilience.

To learn more about the FirstEnergy Foundation and its commitment to community involvement, visit www.firstenergycorp.com/community.