Former Dallas Mavericks player, Michael Finley, is a mentor for fourth-grade McWhorter Elementary student, Jelani Lawson. Finley, an NBA champion, is the founder of the Michael Finley Foundation, a non-profit organization that seeks to help children succeed. The Foundation’s G.I.F.T.4.S. Academy is an academic and life-skills accelerator program. The program seeks to empower students and their families with the training and skills to achieve their personal and professional aspirations.
Benefits of Mentoring
Jalani’s mom, Patrice Sims, is the registrar at his school. Jalani and his mom give credit to Michael Finley and his Foundation for help with academics and with focus in the classroom.
Jalani was featured on Fox 4 News, highlighting the importance of mentorship and involvement in the growth of students academically and socially.