On October 16, Breakthrough Atlanta will bring the community together for its signature fundraiser, Fund-A-Scholar, an annual celebration honoring metro Atlanta middle and high school students as well as college students from around the nation. The event generates critical support for Breakthrough Atlanta’s year-round programming that equips underserved students with the tools to pursue college and long-term career achievement.

For nearly three decades, Breakthrough Atlanta has transformed the academic and personal journeys of more than 3,100 students in grades 7–12 and 650 college students. With challenging coursework, mentorship, and a nurturing community, Breakthrough scholars are graduating from college at twice the rate of their peers in Georgia. Many are the first in their families to achieve this milestone.

“Breakthrough Atlanta gives our students the chance to unlock opportunity early,” said Monique Shields, CEO of Breakthrough Atlanta. “Our scholars are breaking barriers to reach their dream of a college degree, while our college Teaching Fellows are developing the skills and confidence to thrive as the next generation of educators. Their commitment and persistence are paving the way for leadership in their schools and communities.”

Rooted in a “students teaching students” model, Breakthrough Atlanta delivers six years of academic and social enrichment through its tuition-free program. Rising 7th, 8th, and 9th graders begin with the High School Readiness Program, and rising 10th–12th graders advance to the College Prep Program, preparing them for higher education and future careers.

With nearly 400 students currently enrolled, Breakthrough Atlanta continues to close opportunity gaps caused by underfunded schools, educator shortages, and systemic barriers. 100% of Breakthrough students graduate from high school on time, compared to 85 percent of their peers.

For most scholars, participation in the program will result in them being the first in their families to graduate from college. Additionally, Breakthrough students are 1.5 times more likely to complete college than their peers.

“Teachers at Breakthrough helped me grow academically and develop critical thinking skills, giving me the confidence to succeed in the classroom,” said Sha’Quarian Howard, Breakthrough Atlanta Scholar Alum. Que, as he is known for short, graduated from Paul Duke STEM High School in 2025 and is attending New York Institute of Technology. His mother, Mareka Howard, will be a featured speaker at Fund-A-Scholar this year.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Fund-A-Scholar, which draws hundreds of supporters and raises close to half a million dollars. Proceeds from last year’s record-breaking event are providing 130 scholarships for students in 2025. 

This year’s Fund-A-Scholar celebration will take place on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at The Stave Room (199 Armour Drive, NE, Atlanta, 30324). The event includes a lively cocktail hour, a buffet dinner, spirited silent and live auctions, a raffle, and an inspiring program featuring former students and teaching fellows sharing their journey.

Breakthrough Atlanta is 100% reliant on generous charitable donations to sustain their programs and to help students overcome barriers to educational success. 

Fund-A-Scholar is made possible through:

• Presenting Sponsor, Chick-fil-A

• Presenting Media Sponsor Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles

• Magna Cum Laude Sponsor JPMorgan Chase & Co.

• Cum Laude Sponsors Carithers Flowers, Synovus, and Troutman Pepper Locke

• Honor Roll Sponsors City of Hope, Dorsey Alston Realtors, Deloitte, and Edible Arrangements

• Dean’s List Sponsor Delta Community Credit Union

A special thanks to the 2025 Event Hosts: Martha and Chris Bosworth, Meg and Kevin O’Keefe, Brittain and Scott Prigge, and Leslie and Peter Thomas.

Tickets and tables can be purchased online at https://one.bidpal.net/2025fundascholar/ticketing through October 2. 

View the 2024 Fund-A-Scholar photo gallery here.

For sponsorship information, please contact Amy Curtin, Manager, Fundraising Events & Communications: [email protected] and (470) 852-8906.