By Mary Ekene

Paris Overstreet is the founder of the college readiness program A-TEAM (Achieving Together Excellence Academics & Mentorship). The A-TEAM provides scholarship opportunities, free SAT prep courses, a mentorship program and college campus tours to students in public schools.

Paris was inspired to start A-TEAM in June of 2017 when she asked her mother if a few of her friends could join her in SAT preparation classes. Discovering that SAT prep was very expensive Paris decided to open a bank account and raise money so that other kids could afford SAT prep also. Shortly afterward, Paris and her family were displaced by Hurricane Harvey which delayed the launch of their organization.

Nearly a year later the A-TEAM collaborated with the Pastoral committee by hosting Family Fun Day in Navy Park. The A-Team orchestrated the games and helped to secure prizes from sponsors in the community. The event provided school supplies, free food, and prizes to the community free of charge.

On October 13, the A-TEAM will host their first fundraiser “50 shades of Pink Social Brunch” at 25 men club in Vinton Louisiana from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased by calling 409-238-2171.  All proceed will be used to fund the group’s college tour to Atlanta in May.

Paris believes that pride character and good work habits lead to success. As a ninth grader, she is enrolled in Early College courses at Lamar State College-Orange. She will graduate high school with an associates degree. Paris is a W.O.S Fillie, she plays varsity Volleyball for W.O.S, Club Volleyball for SETX an active member in her church and student government.

Paris has future plans to attend U.C.L.A in California. She has dreams of one day becoming a lawyer or a plastic surgeon. She has big hopes and dreams not only for herself but for everyone that she know and love.

Tiffany and Paris Overstreet Orange, Texas is very proud of you. Keep up the excellent work.

 

Mary Ekene/ Activist for Bring Positivity Back/ Owner/ CEO Livol.