In an exclusive interview, Oscar Guzman, Director of High School Programming, and Mildred Triana, Director of Post-Secondary Pathways at Future Five, share insights into the nonprofit's mission and recent initiatives. Established in 2009 by Cliff McFeely, Future Five is dedicated to supporting low-income students in Stamford, Connecticut, helping them realize their potential and achieve their aspirations.

 

Future Five’s Core Mission

 

Oscar Guzman:

At Future Five, we believe every student has the potential to lead a fulfilling life. Our mission is to help them achieve their goals through a variety of programs. We offer four key enrichment opportunities for high school students: academic support, community service, health and wellness initiatives, and enrichment activities, including field trips and college tours.

 

Q: How did Future Five engage students this summer?

 

Oscar Guzman:

This summer was relatively calm, as many students were busy, and we also transitioned to a new building. However, we continued to provide academic support for summer assignments. Community service projects were active, alongside physical activities like tennis, volleyball, and pickleball. Next week, we’re excited to take some students to the new Brickstone amusement park and Six Flags as a reward for those who participated in community service and attended our math boot camp over the summer.

 

Mildred Triana:

This summer, the College Success program welcomed its new 2025 cohort with a dinner at Kashi. We hosted a Real Talk session where students openly discussed the pressures of academics and the challenges of imposter syndrome. We enjoyed a fun-filled beach day, soaking up the sun and celebrating the end of the year with the high school team. Our focus was on addressing Summer Melt for the incoming freshman class, ensuring that everyone is fully prepared to embark on their college journey this fall.

 

Q: What benefits does Future Five provide to Stamford's youth?

 

Oscar Guzman:

Future Five has become increasingly popular, with many students joining earlier and spending more time with us. We primarily recruit freshmen and sophomores, while our junior class is currently at capacity, reflecting the strong interest in our organization. Once students join F5, they gain access to a variety of opportunities, including our career connector, which aids in resume writing and job or internship searches.

 

Mildred Triana:

It’s crucial for young adults to feel supported in their goals and aspirations. Our program empowers members to persevere, even during challenging times. We highlight the importance of connection and utilizing resources, demonstrating how these can truly transform lives.

 

Q: What programs do you offer during the school year?

 

Oscar Guzman:

During the school year, our offerings mirror those of the summer, including academic support, community service, health and wellness, and enrichment opportunities. We focus more on academics, providing in-person tutors and online resources like Upchieve. For health and wellness, we enjoy outdoor activities while the weather permits, transitioning to indoor options such as indoor volleyball, boxing, and pickleball as it gets colder. While community service activities may decrease in winter, we still engage in projects. We also host a significant lunch for our high school students to check in, establish expectations, and remind them that they are never alone; we are here to support them.

 

Mildred Triana:

I oversee the daily operations of the College Success program, ensuring the environment is welcoming and tidy. It’s my priority that our members feel safe and comfortable. I design programming for both college and high school members that showcases various college experiences. We maintain a check-in program to connect with our college members, regardless of their location, ensuring they receive support wherever they choose to study. Throughout the semester, we explore different colleges and universities, and at the end of the term, we send care packages to our members just before finals.

 

Q: If you had to inspire the youth to join Future Five with one quote, what would it be?

 

Oscar Guzman:

"Dreams don’t work unless you do."

 

Mildred Triana:

“Sometimes you have to get out of your own way. If you want to give yourself the chance to meet new people who will motivate and empower you, then come to Future Five.”

 

Q: How can students become part of Future Five?

 

Oscar Guzman:

Joining Future Five is straightforward. First, prospective members should explore our social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to see if our mission resonates with them. For more information, we encourage visits to our website, where a "Become a Member" tab leads to the application page. After submitting the application, our team will reach out based on the timing of their application, as we have a membership orientation process three times a year. For fall members, applications are accepted until the first or second week of September. We will text them an invitation to the orientation, where they will learn more about F5 and our activities. We encourage new members to participate in multiple events related to community service, health and wellness, and academics. Completing three out of four workshops qualifies them for "Here to There," a six-week orientation process, after which they officially become members. Once you are a member, you remain one for life.

 

Mildred Triana:

To join Future Five, members must enter through the high school program and opt into College Success.

 

Q: What’s your favorite ice cream flavor?

 

Oscar Guzman:

I adore anything chocolate! My go-to treat is a Snickers milkshake—it's a delightful combination of Snickers and milkshake, truly a chef's kiss! When it comes to ice cream, you simply can’t go wrong with chocolate; I’m definitely a chocolate enthusiast!

 

Mildred Triana:

My favorite ice cream flavor is the Americano Cone from Ben & Jerry’s.