Our evidence based and informed frameworks integrate the Success Sequence, and Training for Purpose programs to equip young people with the tools they need to thrive in school, relationships, and life.

Together, these approaches support:

  • Improved academic engagement and persistence

  • Healthier relationships and life choices

  • Increased readiness for workforce participation and economic stability

Why These Programs Work.

  • The Success Sequence is a three-step research-aligned framework provided to students proven to help decrease their chances of being in poverty by 97%.

    1. Graduate high school.

    2. Get a full time job.

    3. Marry before having children.

    Students suggest character traits needed to complete the sequence and the benefits of each step— highlighting the importance of building a firm foundation in preparation for the family and/or lifestyle they want.

  • Built to Last provides visuals and representations to help students see the value in interpersonal relationships and their relationship with self. This program helps students identify, value, and manage their internal assets—much like a personal bank account for life skills.

The Success Sequence and Built to Last are not one-time lessons—they are tools young people carry forward. By strengthening internal assets, emotional intelligence, and intentional decision-making, these programs equip youth to navigate challenges, relationships, education, and careers with confidence.

Because success isn’t accidental, it’s built.

See our approach

Watch some of our Leadership Team members break down the Success Sequence!

Evidence at a glance.

  • 92% of participants reported increased confidence and goal clarity

  • 88% demonstrated improved decision-making and communication skills

  • 85% showed growth in emotional awareness and self-regulation

Where internal awareness (strengths, values, goals) meets practical impact (confidence and decision-making).

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  • Youth demonstrate improved decision-making by pausing to reflect, considering consequences, and choosing actions that align with positive life outcomes and long-term success.

  • Participants show measurable gains in emotional regulation, effective communication, and the ability to build and sustain healthy relationships.

  • Participants demonstrate high levels of student engagement, reflected in consistent attendance and completion rates of more than 75% across school and community settings.

Arkansas Expansion Overall Summary Report

Choosing to Excel has reached more than 10,000 students across Arkansas schools, equipping young people with the knowledge, skills, and support to make healthy choices and build strong futures. The impact is clear: more than 92% of students reported that C2E programming made a positive difference in their lives, while fewer than 8% reported little to no impact. Through engaging, age-appropriate discussions and trusted relationships with caring adults, students explore goal setting, healthy decision-making, optimal health, the Success Sequence, healthy relationships, leadership, and essential life skills. More importantly, they learn how the choices they make today can shape the opportunities available to them tomorrow. At C2E, we do more than provide information. We help young people see what is possible, believe in their future, and develop the confidence and skills to pursue it. Keep the End in Mind. Today’s choices help shape tomorrow’s future.

Funded in part by: Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Family and Youth Services Bureau (FYSB), and Division of Positive Youth Development

Current Events

  • C2E Summer Camp

    This year’s Summer Impact Camp was full of fun, foundations, and friends. Focusing on equipping our kids with resources to pour into their futures, our camp theme was “building your life’s toolbox”. Check out our recap video soon, and be sure to join us next year!

    Recap Video

  • Thank you, Arvest!

    Thank You, Arvest Bank!

    Choosing to Excel is grateful for the generous support of Arvest Bank and their investment in our youth! Your commitment helps us empower young people, strengthen families, and create opportunities for youth to thrive.

    Thank you for believing in the vision and choosing to invest in the next generation. Together, we are helping young people choose to excel! 🙌🏽

    Recap

  • Leadership Team Takes Washington D.C.

    This summer, our Leadership Team took trip to the nation’s capitol to tell Arkansas lawmakers what's important to youth in the communities they serve.

    They made it known, “Nothing about us, without us”.

    Recap