About the Beat the Odds® Program
The PWC Bar Foundation funds the annual Prince William County Beat the Odds Celebration in order to both raise the awareness of the plight of at-risk youth and to celebrate the success of those young people who have turned their lives to a positive path despite the odds against them.
Program Description
Beat the Odds is a program originally developed by the National Children's Defense Fund, modified and expanded to respond to the unique needs of the children in the 31st Judicial Circuit of the Commonwealth of Virginia, utilizing the services and guidance of designated representatives from the Court Services Unit, the At Risk Youth & Family Services Unit, the Departments of Social Services, JDR Clerk's Office, and the Probation Departments of our 31st Judicial Circuit. To date, the program has recognized and supported numerous at-risk youth in our community with scholarships and educational awards in excess of $100,000 and provided mentors from the local legal community to provide ongoing support during the transition from foster care or other detention programs into independence as adults.
The objective of the program is to recognize the determination and achievement of at-risk youth who have come in contact with our juvenile justice system to encourage them and others, to continue on their path of success with scholarship opportunities, mentoring support and recognition that they have the capacity to break out of destructive cycles.
Each of our annual award recipients came in contact with the juvenile justice system and was provided services through various programs. Some of our awardees came into care as a result of abuse or neglect, and others because of acts of juvenile delinquency or truancy. All of the award recipients have overcome much of the adversity that contributed to their initial need for intervention by the juvenile authorities. Each, despite numerous obstacles, has made substantial academic and social progress that this program seeks to encourage and reward.
Funding - We Need Your Help
Funding for scholarships, awards and support of the program is provided by the PWC Bar Foundation, a non-profit, 501(c) 3 corporation with a mission to fund law related educational and community service projects in Prince William County and the 31st Judicial District. Beat the Odds is only one of many programs supported by the Foundation. Learn more about the other programs the Foundation supports >>
The Foundation welcomes donations and contributions to support the Beat the Odds program from community groups, businesses, and private individuals. Each year our legal community, local organizations, and caring individuals contribute to the Foundation to fund the scholarships and awards that are provided to our young people. Please visit our contribution page to join us in supporting and keeping this program growing in our community.
