Maleeka’s journey with CISCC started when she was a student paired with a mentor who made a lasting impact on her life. Today, as a mom, she’s come full circle—her son is now connected to CISCC, continuing the legacy of support and encouragement. Even more inspiring? Maleeka’s relationship with her mentor remains strong to this day.
We recently sat down with Maleeka to hear about her experience, the power of mentoring, and her hopes for her son’s future.
1. Tell us about when you first got to know your CISCC mentor -How has your relationship with her impacted your life, first as a student, and now today?
When I first got my mentor, it was a “different” thing. I had to get used to it, of course. Someone coming to pick me and my sister up and show us attention. It was rare, so it took a little bit for us to warm up. That didn’t stop her though. She was invested in making sure she went over homework with us (helping us with anything we didn’t understand), she even started introducing us to her church family, and we began regularly attending Alston Chapel Church.
There, we sang in the choir, participated in the dance team, and attended convocations. Being in the church connected us to many other caring community members. One example, there was a math teacher that helped strengthen our skills and get over our dislike of math.
She had such an impact on us throughout life because she, for one, helped build our character and the morals that would guide us young girls (my sister and I). She was a blessing, and I now share those lessons with my children. Looking back now as an adult, I am extremely thankful and humbled at God blessing us with her because she cared a lot for us through the years. I don’t think I would be as successful in a lot of things, but she empowered me to believe in myself and from that, I fear nothing at all!
2. You now have a son in elementary school. How do you hope CISCC can be part of his journey in the coming years?
I would like to see him strengthen his confidence, become more outspoken and express himself a little more. Also, I am a big advocate for education so I want him to be more skilled in math and reading!
3. How have you seen CISCC be a positive part of our community over the years?
I have seen CISCC impact the community by consistently being a reliable resource! A source for support, a source of unity, a source of love! The people that have been behind this organization, like Shirille Lee, have backed a lot of kids in the community because she and others have simply just cared! It means a lot to know there is someone else out there in the world that has taken the time to empower me to be the best version of myself.
4 Anything else you would like to share with us?
Nothing to add but just wanting to show my gratitude. Thank you for all you do for the community, the love doesn’t go unfelt!
What an inspiring example of what we are all about at CISCC. It takes all of us—mentors, supporters, and partners—to create a community of support that helps students stay in school and succeed in life. Maleeka is a testimony to the power of being present.
As we approach the End of Year, our Being Present Matters campaign is driving us toward a critical goal: raising an additional $100,000 to sustain our work through the school year.
Will you join us? By donating, volunteering, or spreading the word, you can help ensure every student in Chatham County has the support they need to thrive. Together, we can create lasting change and pave the way for a brighter future for our students.
Let’s make it happen—because being present truly matters.
