ABOUT THE SEMITA PROJECT
The Semita Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty by sponsoring teens, guiding them on a new path forward.
OUR MISSION
Crafting Paths for a Better Tomorrow
The Semita Project works to break generational cycles of poverty by providing immersive mentorship experiences to impoverished adolescents.
VISION STATEMENT
A Vision Rooted in Equity and Empowerment
The Semita Project envisions a world in which adolescents are given equitable education, social, and career opportunities regardless of economic background, the cyclical nature of poverty is diminished, and no child is neglected by the larger community due to their family’s socioeconomic status.
TYLER'S STORY
Together, we can alleviate the effects of poverty.
Raised amidst the challenging grips of poverty, Tyler found himself trapped in a cycle of instability and despair until a transformative summer job offered an escape. At 15, he was taken under the wing of a caring employer who not only provided work but also exposed him to a healthier way of living. This invaluable experience equipped Tyler with tools and perspectives that became a lifeline through the subsequent hardships of life, including family tragedies. Despite enduring more tribulations, the foundation set by that pivotal summer steered him towards a more stable path. Through The Semita Project, Tyler aims to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty by offering similar life-changing opportunities to others, highlighting the power of external support in rewriting one's destiny.
STATEMENT OF NEED
The Dire Need to Act Now
With an estimated 1 in 5 children living in poverty in the United States, the demand for a novel change has never been greater. These kids, who are often being deprived of the most basic of needs, need our help! They are drastically more prone to mental illness, malnourishment, educational deprivation, substance abuse, incarceration, traumatic events, and more. Please help to understand and spread the tragic truth that surrounds this epidemic across much of our nation.
Read MoreOUR CORE VALUES
These core values define the essence of The Semita Project and guide us in our mission to guide teens in poverty toward a better future, free from the constraints of poverty.
EMPOWERMENT
“History will judge us by the difference we make in the everyday lives of children.” - Nelson Mandela, revolutionary and political leader
We believe in the inherent potential of every teen, regardless of anything and everything else. We are committed to helping them find empowerment, and to realize their strengths, values, talents, and aspirations. Through mentorship, education, and a multi-faceted support program, we aim to instill confidence and self-belief. All teens should feel enabled to take charge of their lives and make informed decisions that lead to breaking the cycle of poverty.
COLLABORATION
“All of us, at some time or other, need help. Whether we’re giving or receiving help, each one of us has something valuable to bring to this world. That’s one of the things that connects us as neighbors - in our own way, each one of us is a giver and a receiver.” - Mr. Rogers, television host, author, and Minister
Breaking the grasp of intergenerational poverty requires a collective effort. We actively collaborate with community partners, nonprofits, donors, and volunteers to leverage their expertise, resources, and networks. By fostering a collaborative spirit, we create a united front that provides teens with a comprehensive support system for learning and growth.
RESILIENCE
“If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” - Martin Luther King Jr., Nobel Peace Prize recipient, Minister and philosopher
We recognize and acknowledge that the journey to breaking the cycle of poverty can be challenging and fraught with setbacks. We encourage resilience in our teens, teaching them to overcome obstacles and persevere in the face of adversity. We lead by example, displaying resilience in our approach to continuous improvement and adaptation within our communities.
CURIOSITY
“When I approach a child, he inspires in me two sentiments - tenderness for what he is and respect for what he may become.” - Louis Pasteur, French chemist and microbiologist
A life-long desire to learn and pursue knowledge is the cornerstone of personal and societal growth. We promote a culture of lifelong learning, encouraging our teens to expand their horizons and acquire new skills they can lean on to thrive in their chosen paths forward. All our selected communities will offer many different options for growth in all pillars of The Semita Program, allowing for different opportunities to pursue new curiosities.
OUR TEAM
Tyler Wood - Founder/President
Tyler Wood is the Founder and President of The Semita Project. His experience and passion with adolescents in poverty led him to create The Semita Project in 2022. Tyler has focused much of his career as a Project Manager within Washington and British Columbia, but now resides full time in Ketchum, Idaho. He spends his free time actively exploring the outdoors , pursuing faith, and engaging within the community.
Mark Mary - Vice President
Mark is currently retired from POWER Engineers where he worked for 28 years as the Chief Human Resources Officer. He retired in July of 2022 and has since been actively involved with The Semita Project as a board member. Mark also works with the Blaine County Recreation District where he’s been active on their Board for 12+ years. Mark is also very active in The Presbyterian Church of the Bigwood. Mark and his wife Lisa have been married for 26+ years and they’ve raised their two daughters in the Wood River Valley. Mark has long had the passion of supporting his community and the youth wherever possible and The Semita Project has been one of those passions
Jeff Johnson - Treasurer
Treasurer
Cheryl Fulton - Planner/Secretary
Cheryl has spent the vast majority of her career working in start-up companies and not for profits serving children, families, and animals. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development/Psychology from California State University, Fullerton. Cheryl grew up in the Wood River Valley and has recently moved back to the valley to spend quality time with her parents. Her grown children live in nearby Boise. She enjoys spending time hiking with her Mini-Aussie, paddle boarding, fly fishing, skiing, and snow shoeing. As a Board Member, she looks forward to furthering The Semita Project’s mission.