Empowering
Youth to
Reach Their
Full Potential
Every Student Deserves A Chance
Too many students face hardship through no fault of their own. Lacking family support and economic resources, it can feel impossible to get ahead. S.M.A.R.T. Students, INC., founded in 2006, supports students by making education accessible, and engaging family & community members to create a supportive learning environment—a true "win-win" for all.
S.M.A.R.T. Students, INC. was founded on the principle that higher learning is the key to success. Bachelor’s degree holders aged 22–27 earn 67% more annually than their peers with only a high school diploma, emphasizing the strong connection between education and financial stability. Beyond earnings, higher learning fosters personal growth, enhances health and well-being, and strengthens communities, creating a lasting impact on both individuals and society.
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We Take it Personal
There is a staggering gap in educational attainment between low-income and high-income students.
Low-income students are 38% less likely to enroll in college immediately after high school compared to their wealthier peers (51% vs. 89%), according to a study conducted by The Brookings Institution. Only 4% of low-income students earn a college degree by age 28, while 45% of high-income students do—an 11-fold difference, according to a study conducted by Johns Hopkins University. Without intervention, millions of students are left behind, unable to access the opportunities that education provides. ​
We take it personal. Each and every S.M.A.R.T. Students, INC. program is tailored to provide educational and lifetime opportunities for all students. We believe it is our shared responsibility to lift every student and provide the tools and support they need to thrive.
S.M.A.R.T. Students, Inc. programs focus on two key components:
Access to Technology, Tutoring, & Counseling
Family and Community Participation
C.U.R.E. Program
Children Understanding the Reward of Education
​​S.M.A.R.T. Students, Inc. C.U.R.E. Program provides communities with an outlet to close the doors to the digital divide by facilitating placement of personal computers and devices in the homes of participating students. The C.U.R.E. program also combats lack of resources, illiteracy, and other learning disorders through after school tutoring. We close the economic gap that separates the "haves from the have-nots".
P.U.R.E. Program
Parents Understanding the Reward of Education
A key component to the P.U.R.E. Program is the involvement of family. At S.M.A.R.T. Students, Inc we believe that familial involvement is vital in allowing us to help students succeed. The P.U.R.E. program focuses on gaining active involvement from parents, guardians, grandparents, and other family members. This leads to a better understanding of the value and reward of education.
H.E.A.R.T. to H.E.A.R.T. Program
Help End Abuse and Rape Together
At S.M.A.R.T. Students, Inc., we believe every student deserves the opportunity to succeed. However, barriers like physical, verbal, and emotional abuse can disrupt their academic and personal growth. H.E.A.R.T. to H.E.A.R.T. offers counseling and support, helping students heal and break cycles that may otherwise lead to crime, guiding them toward a brighter future.
Real Men Read
The Real Men Read program at S.M.A.R.T. Students, Inc. inspires young minds by connecting them with positive male role models who promote literacy, education, and a love for reading. Through interactive reading sessions, mentorship, and engaging discussions, this program encourages students—particularly those from underserved communities—to develop strong literacy skills and a lifelong passion for learning. By demonstrating the power of knowledge and representation, Real Men Read helps shape confident, capable, and motivated young readers.
Dora Shore Scholarships
The Dora Shore Scholarship Program honors the legacy of Dora Shore (1890-1980), a steadfast advocate for education who championed learning within her family and community. This scholarship supports deserving students by providing financial assistance to help them achieve their academic and career goals. By investing in the next generation of leaders, the program continues Dora Shore’s mission of empowering students through education and opportunity.
Jr. CEO Program
The Jr. CEO Program provides students with hands-on experience in entrepreneurship, leadership, and professional development by fostering internships and partnerships with small businesses, corporations, community colleges, and universities in key impact areas. Through mentorship, skill-building workshops, and real-world business exposure, participants gain the tools and knowledge needed to navigate their career paths, build networks, and develop an entrepreneurial mindset for future success.
S.M.A.R.T. Students, Inc. is a private, nonprofit charitable organization led by a dedicated Board of Directors. Our mission is to support disadvantaged youth in becoming successful, engaged citizens by providing quality academic access, mentorship, and life skills training.
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We are committed to ensuring that underprivileged and inner-city youth have access to global educational opportunities by expanding awareness and creating pathways for success beyond their immediate communities. Through our programs, we empower young people with the resources, skills, and support they need to thrive.
About
I’m Douglas Hollie, a former NFL player and founder of S.M.A.R.T. Students Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to supporting at-risk youth. Growing up in tough circumstances, I saw firsthand how lack of resources and guidance can limit opportunities. That’s why I started S.M.A.R.T. Students Inc.—to make sure young people have access to education, mentorship, counseling, and life skills that set them up for success.
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Our goal is to give these students a real chance to break cycles of poverty, crime, and recidivism through education and community engagement. To date, we’ve awarded 85 college scholarships to students who otherwise may not have had the opportunity. Each year, we host a College Fundraising Event to raise support and empower even more students.
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One major initiative of S.M.A.R.T. Students Inc. is our Therapeutic Group Home Model, which provides a structured, supportive environment for young men aged 13 to 18. These homes serve youth referred by the juvenile court system, probation officers, and the Division of Social Services. In California, priority is given to Alameda County youth, while our Michigan and Texas locations accept referrals statewide. Each home houses up to six residents, ensuring individualized care and guidance.
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Through these efforts, S.M.A.R.T. Students Inc. is giving young people the tools to rise above their circumstances and build brighter futures. My mission is simple: provide opportunities, create change, and give every student the support they deserve.