About Exceeding Expectations
Exceeding Expectations was created by Cherie Gruenfeld in 2001 to re-direct the lives of at-risk kids in San Bernardino, California, using the sport of triathlon.
The program includes 40-50 kids at a time who are students in area K-12 schools. Members who are in college or have graduated from college remain a part of the program, often acting as volunteers and as mentors to the younger kids. Families are also encouraged to join in activities with their kids and we usually have 10-20 parents at EE events.
Events include year-round running races and triathlons in the Southern California area, team training sessions, an annual Swimathon/Runathon and a Christmas Awards and Scholarships party. EE also supports kids’ individual interests by providing music lessons and taking them to concerts, shows and exhibits, as well as supporting their performances and non-EE athletic meets.
EE is most visible when the kids are racing. But developing athletes is not what this program is all about.
It’s about education, which is the key to changing their lives.
The primary goal of Exceeding Expectations is to get every member graduated from high school and college. Clearly, not every kid will find college to be the best personal choice, so we encourage kids to pursue whatever post-high school education will provide them the opportunity to change their lives for the better, including military service and starting their own businesses.
The results have been spectacular. Grades are way up, behavioral problems are way down. Kids are becoming the first in their families to graduate from high school, setting the example for younger siblings, and many are achieving the ultimate goal – going to college – which would have been unthinkable before they became a part of Exceeding Expectations.
The primary goal of Exceeding Expectations is to get every member graduated from high school and college. Clearly, not every kid will find college to be the best personal choice, so we encourage kids to pursue whatever post-high school education will provide them the opportunity to change their lives for the better, including military service and starting their own businesses.
The results have been spectacular. Grades are way up, behavioral problems are way down. Kids are becoming the first in their families to graduate from high school, setting the example for younger siblings, and many are achieving the ultimate goal – going to college – which would have been unthinkable before they became a part of Exceeding Expectations.
Giving these kids the chance to dream, set goals and go to college takes money. Without financial support from EE, none of that would be possible for them. And without help from donors who believe that helping even one kid get educated and break out of his environment can change his life and that of his family, EE couldn’t give these kids the opportunity they so deserve.
Exceeding Expectations is supported almost entirely by private donations. Aside from insurance, there are no administrative expenses and no paid staff. Every dollar donated goes directly to benefit the kids.
Educational needs include tuition, books, living expenses, special educational opportunities, music lessons, leadership programs and transportation.
Financial needs for pre-college kids include race entry fees, transportation, food, athletic gear, bike maintenance, counseling and tutoring.
All this is made possible by donations from generous, caring individuals.
Speaking of which: Donations are gratefully accepted!