Advantage Lancaster

What if we gave the best, to those that have the least?  To answer this complex question, co-founders, Ty Bair and Shayne Meadows, established, Advantage Lancaster, a non-profit, college and career readiness program that has been empowering Lancaster’s youth in grades 6th – 12th since 2002. To prepare youth for their future learning experiences, Advantage Lancaster aims to promote healthy, productive citizens that can think critically, express their ideas eloquently, and work cooperatively in any setting.  Students will be exposed to experiential, holistic learning opportunities that will support, engage, and prepare them for post-secondary education and future careers. With over 120 years combined experience, our highly passionate educators are PA-Certified teachers in the content areas of mathematics, science, social studies, and language arts. Advantage Lancaster’s innovative three semester schedule offers youth year-round exposure to our state-of-art academic curriculum and life enrichment opportunities. This unique approach mitigates the “summer slide” and the need to relearn material after their summer break. 

Advantage Lancaster is based on five fundamental principles which are:  Education, Appreciation of the Arts, Career Exploration, Community Service, and Wellness.  Through active engagement and mentorship, students will have the opportunity to create “winning life plans.”

A Legacy of Empowerment: The Story of Advantage Lancaster

In the heart of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, a vision took root in 2001, ignited by the passion of two dedicated educators, Ty Bair and Shayne Meadows. With a shared belief that every student deserves a chance to thrive, they founded Advantage Lancaster, a nonprofit organization committed to transforming the lives of middle and high school students through educational mentorship.

The journey began with just 15 students in a single school, but the dream was larger than any classroom could contain. Ty and Shayne envisioned a program that would not only impart knowledge but also nurture the whole child—mind, body, and spirit. Today, Advantage Lancaster has blossomed to serve 250 students throughout the School District of Lancaster, embodying a legacy of empowerment and growth.

At the core of Advantage Lancaster are five guiding principles that frame every initiative and interaction:

1.  Educational Opportunities: Students are offered a range of programs that enhance their learning experience, from tutoring sessions to workshops that spark curiosity and creativity. The focus is on cultivating a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.

2.  Community Involvement: Engagement in the community teaches students the value of service and connection. Through various volunteer projects, they learn to give back, building not just skills, but also a sense of belonging and purpose.

3.  Appreciation of the Arts: Arts education is vital for nurturing creativity and self-expression. Advantage Lancaster encourages students to explore their artistic talents, offering workshops in music, dance, and visual arts, ensuring that creativity is celebrated alongside academic achievement.

4.  Wellness: Understanding that a healthy body fuels a healthy mind, Advantage Lancaster integrates wellness through tennis programming. Students learn not only the game but also the importance of physical fitness and teamwork, fostering resilience both on and off the court.

5.  Career Exploration: By exposing students to various career paths, Advantage Lancaster helps them envision a future filled with possibilities. Through mentorship and internships, students gain insights into different professions, guiding them towards informed decisions about their futures.

The impact of Advantage Lancaster is profound and lasting. Students emerge from the program not only with enhanced academic skills but also with a deep appreciation for their community and the arts, a commitment to wellness, and a clearer understanding of their career aspirations. They become empowered individuals, ready to navigate the challenges of life with confidence.

As we embark on this 24-hour nonprofit fundraiser, we invite you to join us in supporting this vital mission. Your contribution will help us expand our programs, reach more students, and continue to cultivate the leaders of tomorrow. Together, we can ensure that every child in Lancaster has access to the resources and mentorship they need to succeed.

Every dollar you donate will be an investment in a brighter future—one where our students not only dream but achieve. Together, let’s honor the vision of Ty Bair and Shayne Meadows, and champion the incredible potential of every child in our community. Join us in making a difference today. Your support can change lives.

Who We Are

Advantage Lancaster (AL) is a college and career readiness program with a holistic approach to learning that focuses on education and career explorations. Advantage Lancaster has empowered Lancaster City’s youth since 2002...