The Problems We Solve
The Eye of the Tiger Foundation is solving serious problems that are directly impacting the safety, social well-being, and economic development of communities across our country, including:
Educational Challenges and Lower Academic Achievement
- Disengagement from School: At-risk youth often face challenges such as unstable home environments, economic difficulties, or health problems that lead to absenteeism, behavioral issues, and a lack of engagement in school.
- Lower Graduation Rates: These youth are less likely to complete high school and pursue further education, which can limit their future employment opportunities and financial stability
- Limited Access to Resources: Many at-risk youth attend under-resourced schools that lack adequate support services, after-school programs, and qualified staff, further hampering their academic success.
Mental and Physical Health Issues
- Increased Mental Health Disorders: At-risk youth face higher rates of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and PTSD, often due to trauma, abuse, and stress.
- Physical Health Challenges: These young people are more likely to face physical health problems, such as poor nutrition, substance-related issues, and a lack of access to healthcare, which can impact their long-term well-being.
Higher Rates of Juvenile Delinquency and Crime
- Involvement in Criminal Activity: Due to factors like peer influence, lack of positive role models, and economic pressures, at-risk youth are more likely to become involved in criminal activities, including gang involvement, theft, and drug-related offenses.
- Cycle of Incarceration: Youth involved in the juvenile justice system often struggle with reentry and are more likely to reoffend, perpetuating a cycle of crime and incarceration that affects them and their communities.
Economic Consequences
- Unemployment and Financial Instability: Without a solid education and positive developmental experiences, at-risk youth often struggle to secure stable employment, leading to higher rates of unemployment and financial dependence.
- Increased Dependency on Social Services: This population often relies on social welfare systems, such as food stamps and healthcare programs, which places additional economic burdens on society.
Social and Community Impact
- Strain on Public Resources: High rates of juvenile crime, mental health issues, and low educational attainment put a strain on public systems such as law enforcement, healthcare, and social services.
- Intergenerational Cycles of Poverty and Disadvantage: Without intervention, many at-risk youth continue into adulthood without the skills or resources to escape poverty, which can perpetuate these same conditions for their children, creating a cycle of disadvantage across generations.