In Celebration of Black Philanthropy Month

As we celebrate Black Philanthropy Month, we are proud to share the story of Marquisha “Q” Crosby, a CIS alumna whose journey exemplifies the transformative impact of Communities In Schools. Q’s story highlights how the support and guidance of CIS can inspire students to not only achieve their own dreams, but empower others to do the same.

CIS as a Catalyst for Change

Each year, CIS helps hundreds of students like Q successfully transition from high school to the next phase of their lives, whether that means college, a career, or military service. CIS offers essential resources such as college tours, personalized counseling, financial aid assistance, and SAT/ACT prep, all designed to equip students with the tools they need to succeed.

For Q, these supports were transformative. With CIS’s guidance, she explored colleges that were initially beyond her radar, expanding her vision for the future. 

“CIS opened my eyes to a whole new world,” Q recalls. “I probably wouldn’t have gone to college without CIS. CIS didn’t just guide me — they walked with me every step of the way.”

The encouragement and hands-on support Q received from CIS gave her the confidence to step out of her comfort zone and pursue her ambitions.

Empowering the Next Generation

The empowerment Q received from CIS during her formative years has fueled her passion for paying it forward. In her role at US Bank, Q is dedicated to helping others achieve financial stability, build credit, buy homes, and create a foundation for generational wealth. Her mission is to empower others to build a brighter future, just as CIS empowered her.

Q’s story is a powerful reminder of how CIS serves as a catalyst for positive change. “Because of CIS, I now feel like the sky is the limit,” Q shared. Her journey illustrates the ripple effect of support—how one act of kindness and guidance can inspire someone to lift others as they climb.

Join Us in Making a Difference

As we celebrate Black Philanthropy Month, Q’s story reminds us of the transformative impact that personalized support and dedicated resources can have on a student’s life. The college tours, financial aid workshops, SAT/ACT prep, and one-on-one counseling provided by CIS are essential tools that empower students to overcome barriers and unlock their full potential. Your support ensures that CIS can continue offering these critical resources, working with students like Q as they navigate their paths to success and build brighter futures.

We invite you to join us in making a difference. Your contributions help CIS deliver the crucial support that shapes lives, guiding students through important transitions and opening doors to opportunities they might not have previously considered. Please consider making a donation to CIS today, and help us continue to uplift and empower the next generation.