Your support is building a connected community where youth discover an authentic sense of belonging and live a life they love.
96% of RA parents and guardians believe that their child’s RA mentor is critical in ensuring their child is seen and heard.
“My daughter gets to talk to an adult who she trusts. I know there are some things she won’t talk to me about. Everything is about her growth and development. They have a beautiful relationship.”
85% of educators believe that participation in RA positively impacts students’ engagement with their education.
“Classroom teachers lean on Rainier Athletes mentors to strengthen relationships with their students, but beyond that I’ve heard directly from front office staff, custodians, and district directors who all feel like a valued part of the Rainier Athletes Community.”
Bellevue School District Superintendent
“RA helps you figure out who you are, and who you’re meant to be.”
Class of 2024
100% of RA students report feeling an increased sense of belonging.
Thank you for your continued partnership
From dedicated mentors who show up with listening ears and open hearts, to donors who invest generously to power our mission, to partner organizations who work hand-in-hand with us to provide holistic support, RA is surrounded by love on all sides.
2023-2024 Highlights
19,200
hours of extracurriculars
2,696
mentor/mentee check-ins
2,076
identity-affirming teacher conversations
By igniting connection, our youth develop a strong sense of self, they are proud of who they are, and inspired by the person they will become. Ultimately, they belong.
143 RA students met with their dedicated mentors weekly and were fully sponsored to participate in extracurricular sports and activities through 40 activity partners (sports, STEM, arts, and more) who provide deep discounts and scholarships. RA supported families with registration, translation, transportation, and also provided coaches with training to break down barriers and help students participate equitably.
Elementary and Middle School
20 new students were added to the RA community. This amounts to a 9+ year commitment to provide weekly mentorship through each student’s high school graduation and beyond. RA added a new school partner, Sherwood Forest Elementary, and are now actively partnered with all Title 1 schools across the Bellevue School District.
High School and Beyond
We walked alongside 18 high school seniors (RA’s largest graduating cohort to date!) as they explored and chose their post-secondary plans. RA mentors supported through the entire process from choosing a pathway, applying for financial aid, completing applications, and making decisions.
Next Step Scholarships
RA’s community of graduates has grown exponentially over the last few years. With only 1 in 4 first-generation college students completing their degrees, we’re determined to do our part in ensuring RA students are set up for success. This year, we supported 18 RA high school graduates (all first-generation college students) with mentorship as well as financial, academic, career, and resource support.
“To be able to have someone in your corner that you can go to for help and guidance is something I wish I had when I was going through school, especially as a first-generation student trying to figure it out on my own.”