Andy Bobowski

Dec 21

In this conversation, Joel Skene interviews Andy Bobowski, co-founder of Backrs, a social enterprise focused on empowering under-resourced high school and college students. They discuss the problem of under-resourced students and the importance of social capital in their success. Backrs aims to modernize mentoring by leveraging technology and connecting students with a diverse group of adult mentors, or Backrs. The students receive a cash stipend, called the flourish fund, to support their goals and everyday needs. Backrs also works with companies and schools to provide opportunities for young people to gain the skills they need for future employment. The conversation highlights the impact of Backrs on students' social capital and the benefits for both the students and the Backrs. Takeaways Under-resourced high school and college students face challenges in achieving their goals and accessing economic opportunities. Social capital, or connections, plays a crucial role in social mobility and the success of young people. Backrs aims to modernize mentoring by using technology to connect under-resourced students with a diverse group of adult mentors. The cash stipend provided by Backrs, called the flourish fund, supports students' goals and everyday needs.