For rising sophomore Cole Brashear, his summer internship at Inspiring Children Foundation is more than a resume builder — he’s giving back to the nonprofit organization that helped him during a challenging time in his life.

“I moved into ICF’s transitional housing program in Las Vegas when I was 16,” Brashear said. “I was deeply struggling with my mental health and my journey overall, and ICF helped me change that.”

For more than two decades, the organization has helped at-risk youth and families rise above their struggles to heal, grow, and become their best selves. ICF’s award-winning 10-pillar program provides participants with evidence-based tools and activities for improving physical, social, emotional, and mental health.

Ninety-five percent of children in the program have received college scholarships in academics and athletics, including Brashear, who plays for UR’s men’s tennis team.

As part of his internship, Brashear is working to extend ICF’s impact through its #NotAloneChallenge, a worldwide social media campaign focused on reminding people that they’re not alone and providing access to free mental health tools. “We’re trying to get the word out about mental health and provide helpful solutions,” he said.

Brashear, who plans to major in leadership studies and psychology, said the internship experience directly advances his academic pursuits while giving him the personal satisfaction of making a difference in the lives of children in need.

“There’s nothing more rewarding than coming back to this place, seeing my former self in many of these kids who are struggling, and using what I’ve learned to help them,” he said.

Funding provided by the Richmond Guarantee helps Brashear pay for living expenses during his internship at ICF’s headquarters in Las Vegas. He can also use the funding to help him train and maintain a strength and conditioning regimen while away from campus. He said his involvement as a program participant and staff member supports his athletic success. 

“Tennis is a mentally intense sport — it’s difficult to stay focused and compete for such an extended period,” he said. “Being part of ICF is integral to my development as a person and tennis player. Without the Richmond Guarantee, I would not have been able to do this internship and do what I love.”

“Cole’s involvement with ICF is an amazing story of development, humanity, and inspiration,” said Houston Barrick, head coach of UR men’s tennis. “His work is helping strengthen his leadership skills on and off the court, and I know it will make him and our team even stronger going forward.”