Minds Matter Southern California

Behind every student experience is a community of volunteers who choose to invest their time, talents, and leadership in the next generation. 💙

Today, we're highlighting two incredible leaders whose contributions have helped shape meaningful experiences for students and volunteers alike:

✨ **Tanya Finks — Program Director of the Year**
As Program Director, Tanya has helped foster a program environment grounded in collaboration, consistency, and care. Her leadership has strengthened the Sophomore program experience and created a space where students can thrive.

✨ **Frances Groeneman — Curriculum Director of the Year**
As Curriculum Director, Frances has helped students explore transformative summer opportunities that expand their horizons and support their long-term goals. Her commitment to student growth continues to open doors and inspire possibility.

What we love most about Tanya and Frances is that their impact extends far beyond a title. They represent what happens when talented professionals choose to share their experience, leadership, and heart with young people.

Interested in learning how you can support students as a mentor, coach, facilitator, or program leader?

☕ We'd love to connect. DM us or comment below to schedule a virtual coffee chat or join us at our upcoming Virtual Open House on **June 10** to learn more about volunteer opportunities with Minds Matter SoCal.

Drop a 👏 below to help us celebrate Tanya and Frances and the many volunteers who make this work possible.

The Minds Matter team recently traded laptops for rolling pins and learning how to make pasta from scratch! Turns out the secret ingredient to great teamwork is pasta. 🍝

Our staff spent the day learning how to make the real deal kneading, rolling, laughing, and stepping outside our comfort zones. The best part was discovering fun, new ways to connect and work together.

Flour‑covered and fully bonded, it was the perfect reset as we look ahead to rolling out our seven‑year program.