Empowered by Elevate
"No One Gets There Alone."
April 2026
Dear Elevate Family,
Welcome to the April 2026 Edition of Empowered by Elevate!
Another year is almost in the books—and it’s time to celebrate!
Around this time, approximately three years ago, I learned about an incredible mentoring program that was impacting cities across the country. After 18 years of working in youth services, there was something about this mission that truly aligned with my passion.
That same May, I made the decision to join the team that would become Elevate West Alabama, placing us among approximately 20 affiliates nationwide.
With gratitude,
Mr. Mario Cooper
Executive Director
Our Journey: From Start to Now
In August of that first year, we launched with two 90-minute Intro to Elevate-accredited classes at Central High School, serving 9th- and 10th-grade students.
Today, 26 of those original 10th-grade students are preparing to graduate from high school next month. How time flies.
What started as a vision has grown into a movement—one centered on relationships, growth, and opportunity.
🎓 Celebrating Our Students 🎓
Over the past three years, we have had the privilege of building meaningful relationships with so many incredible students.
Their stories, growth, and achievements are what make this work so impactful—and we would love for you to experience that firsthand.
Congratulations, Xavier!
On Friday, April 24th, Elevate senior, Xavier J., received a scholarship to attend Shelton State Community College this Fall!
🎉 Join Us for a Night of Celebration 🎉
On behalf of our Teacher Mentors and students, we invite you to join us for a special evening of celebration and recognition.
Date: Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Calvary Baptist Annex // 1121 Bryant Dr., Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
This evening will be dedicated to honoring our students and the journeys they have taken through Elevate West Alabama.
Be Part of the Celebration
We would love for you to:
- Meet our students
- Hear their stories
- See the impact of Elevate West Alabama up close
For more information, please refer to the attached flyer or visit our website.
🎓 Mark Your Calendars: CHS Graduation 2026 🎓
Monday, May 11, 2026 at 4:30 PM
Coleman Coliseum, The University of Alabama
Graduation season is quickly approaching, and we are excited to celebrate the Central High School Class of 2026! Please mark your calendars and make plans to join us as we honor our graduates.
📅 Monday, May 11, 2026
🕓 4:30 p.m.
📍 Coleman Coliseum, The University of Alabama
1201 Coliseum Dr., Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Doors will open one hour prior to the ceremony. Families and guests are encouraged to arrive early to allow time for seating and entry procedures.
For those unable to attend in person, the ceremony will be streamed live on the Tuscaloosa City Schools YouTube channel, with the broadcast beginning approximately 10 minutes before the ceremony.
Please note that balloons, air horns, alcohol, and weapons are not permitted inside the venue. Coleman Coliseum enforces a clear bag policy, allowing only clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags that do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12". Guests with non-clear bags that do not meet these requirements will not be allowed to enter the facility.
To read the University of Alabama's clear bag policy, click HERE.
To read the University of Alabama's metal detector policy, click HERE.
Please be sure to check the Central High School website and social media pages for additional information. We look forward to celebrating this special milestone with our Falcon family!
Join Us in Making an Impact
None of what we do is possible without supporters like you. Because of your continued contributions:
- We have reached nearly 225 high school students
- And impacted 150 elementary students in Tuscaloosa
As we grow, the need continues to grow. We encourage you to:
- Visit our website and become a monthly donor
- Share our story with others who can support this mission
Our goal is to expand Elevate into more schools and communities, and your support helps make that possible.
Thank You for Your Support!
We extend our deepest gratitude for your continued commitment to the work and mission of Elevate West Alabama. Your support allows us to build meaningful relationships, create opportunities, and empower students every day.
— The Elevate West Alabama Team
Contact Elevate West Alabama
Contact Information
Mr. Mario Cooper, Executive Director
Email: mcooper@elevatewestal.org
Phone: (205) 246-1575
Website: http://www.elevatewestal.org/
Like our page on Facebook!
Follow us on Instagram!
