With autumn comes a new school year, and the excitement of going to college for the first time. For the underserved, homeless, or at-risk children of Westchester, a college education seems like an unattainable dream. But thanks to the support of the Westchester Community Foundation (WCF), a philanthropic organization that distributes grants to nonprofits in the county, scores of students are living their dream of attending college.
Since 2009, the Foundation has made grants through its Wallace Fund totaling $1.3 million to local nonprofits that work with high school students. These programs help students prepare for the SATs, give workshops on college applications and financial aid, and take the students on college tours. They are staffed by teachers, counselors, mentors, job-placement professionals, tutors and life coaches, all focused on helping students develop skills, experience, and confidence.
The programs ensure that the students—most of whom are the first in their family to attend school—find a “match” for their strengths and interests. “We want to see bright students excel in college,” says Program Officer Robin Melén. “We know our investments in college prep are essential to lifting many families out of poverty.” The results of the college programs WCF funds tell the story: SAT scores are higher, more students who never thought they could succeed are enrolling in college, and more students are graduating with a degree.
For more information about Westchester Community Foundation’s grants for college excellence please visit the Foundation’s website.