Launched in 2014 as a program of the Stamford Peace Youth Foundation, the Beyond Limits Academic Program provides highly subsidized one-on-one tutoring and informal mentoring to students attending Stamford Public Schools and other schools in lower Fairfield County. Tutoring is typically conducted by upperclassmen, many of whom are referred by teachers, administrators and other tutors. We also have a number of college students around the world working with us. Tutoring sessions are held at our headquarters on Long Ridge Road, which includes dedicated tutoring rooms equipped with chromebooks, school supplies, and other program materials, a lounge area with Wi-Fi for families, a kitchen with water and snacks, and academic reference books. Please click HERE to view our most recent program highlights. 

To create an equitable academic ecosystem in lower Fairfield County and beyond by empowering every learner through tutoring, informal mentoring, advocacy, and collaboration with local partners.

Beyond Limits' mission is to level the academic playing field and eliminate opportunity gaps for learners in lower Fairfield County. We empower every learner to achieve their potential through high-quality, subsidized, non-school-based peer-to-peer tutoring, mentoring, academic advocacy, and enrichment activities. By collaborating with local partners, we create a sustainable, inclusive academic support network that fosters a thirst for knowledge and equitable access to opportunities.

Joanne Mason and Emily Gordon | Co-Presidents

Near & Far Aid is an all-volunteer fund-raising and fund-granting organization that makes a positive impact on thousands of people in Fairfield County by granting over $1 million a year to well-vetted local agencies targeting poverty and changing lives.

• We provide Individualized academic tutoring in math & science – generally two 1-hour sessions per week per participant, available on weekday afternoons and evenings and Saturdays on a personalized schedule.

• Tutoring is conducted “peer-to-peer”, i.e., our tutors are high-achieving local high school juniors, seniors, and local college students assigned to 4th thru 10th graders. Tutors and tutees rotate, with pairings based upon our assessment of current best “fit.”

• Tutoring sessions can take place in person in our tutoring center or remotely via Zoom, which can allow for greater flexibility and convenience.

• Tutoring fees are on a sliding scale and are substantially subsidized for families eligible to receive discounted services (formerly free or reduced-price school lunch).

• Our approach also offers valuable informal mentoring benefits.