Get involved
Join our mission
We're preparing the next generation for life. Your support — whether a donation, your time, or a partnership — opens doors that weren't there before.
Give
College tours &
field trips
Students see themselves on campus before they ever apply. Field trips throughout the year — ziplining, boat tours, cooking classes, ropes courses and more — take them beyond Waukegan and show them what's possible.
Where your gift goes
Every dollar goes directly to supporting the students — tutoring and academic materials, college tours, and the year-round programming that stays free for every family. Operating costs are already covered, so what you give funds growth, not survival.
The Academy by A Bigger World is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
Why it Matters
Support
Volunteer
The Academy runs on committed people. From tutoring to mentoring to event support — there's a way to show up for these students.
Tutoring & Mentoring
Work directly with students on academics, study skills, and life skills. Our high school students already serve as peer mentors — join the pipeline.
Event Support
Help with college tours, summer field trips, fundraising events, and community activities that keep the program running.
Careers
We’re always looking for educators, coaches, mentors, and mission-aligned people who want to shape young lives.
Staff Roles
Full-time and part-time positions in academics, athletics, and operations.
Coaches & Mentors
Seasonal roles leading students in practice, competition, and personal development.
Partnerships
Corporate, school, and community partnerships that amplify our reach — sponsoring events, providing resources, or co-designing programs.
Contact Us
Questions? Ideas? Just want to learn more? We'd love to hear from you.
The Academy by A Bigger World
114 S Genesee St., Suite 507
Waukegan, IL 60085
Brandon Massey
Executive Director
Miranda VanCleve
Director of Academics
Jennifer Weaver
Program Coordinator
Cindy Bahena
Student Success Coordinator
Register Your Student Today
Open enrollment for middle school students in Waukegan. Start the journey.
Support a Student's Future
To support our mission to provide high quality out-of-school programming, please consider a gift of any amount. Every contribution goes directly to the students.
