College access program for youth

Preparing Urban Youth for Promising Futures 

Failing to graduate high school or being prepared to succeed in college are issues that plague youths living in urban areas. The National Center for Educational Statistics indicates that rural communities post the highest graduation rates. Youths who attend high school in modestly populated towns and suburban landscapes also fare better than kids dealing with the adversity of today’s cities.

The data shows that teenagers in fringe rural communities enjoyed a 12 percent higher high school graduation rate than those in big cities. That’s why Elevate New England works hard to provide a college access program that can prepare and inspire students to break the dysfunctional cycles of America’s cities.

About Elevate New England

The dedicated team at Elevate New England takes a holistic approach to motivating children to excel. We provide long-term mentorships between teachers and students that make sense. Mentors from diverse backgrounds are connected with students who can relate to each other positively and productively.

Our Approach to Preparing Urban Youth for College

To maximize the benefits of the college access program, we offer accredited classes, 24/7 mentoring, outdoor life experiences, and career readiness preparation. We also actively reach out to middle and elementary school children, creating a pipeline of influence that begins in third grade and continues through high school graduation. 

College Guidance from Teacher-Mentors

Too often, teens who come out of underserved school systems fail in college because they are unprepared for the academic standards. We hire teachers from the immediate community to provide higher education modeling and guidance.

College Application and Essay Assistance

Filling out a college application and writing a compelling essay can make a significant difference. Some essays tip the scales in favor of urban high school graduates. We are there to provide feedback and suggestions that can catch the eye of admissions officials.

Scholarship and Financial Aid Guidance

According to the Brookings Institution, over 16 percent of people in urban areas live beneath the poverty line. This is why we provide 1:1 assistance to students and families at home and school to navigate the complicated FAFSA application and other college requirements. 

College Tours and Campus Visits

We find the idea of attending college too abstract and seemingly unattainable for children immersed in difficult urban settings. That’s why we offer tours of regional colleges. Being immersed in a university campus can be a game-changing experience.

Building Essential Academic Skills

The importance of essential academic skills cannot be understated. We encourage mathematics and literacy, among other foundational skills, to help young people succeed in college, trade school, and business.

Providing Summer Internship Opportunities

We recognize that summer internships provide students with invaluable opportunities. Participants gain industry skills and life lessons. They can also put the internship on college and job applications.

Join us in supporting the future!

98% of Elevate students are enrolled in college, the military, a trade school, or land their first jobs by graduation—but no one gets there alone. Be the difference today!

Comprehensive Support Beyond the Classroom

A college access program using a whole-person approach is necessary for struggling urban youths. By addressing education preparation and college readiness solutions, we can change the persistent cycle of poverty. At Elevate New England, we go beyond the classroom model that hasn’t succeeded on its own for generations.

The Impact of Our College Access Program

Our college access program has a positive impact on at-risk youths on several fronts. Approximately 98 percent of teenagers enrolled in our college access program are on track to graduate high school. Many plan to attend college, enter a trade school, or embark on a career. Their lives are increasingly likely to be economically fruitful compared to dropouts. We want only the best possible quality of life experience for every student.

How You Can Support Our Programs

The public education sector spends upwards of $15,500 per student each year. For every $1,100 college access program investment, graduation rates increase by 20 percent. We encourage you to partner with us so that urban children can have access to the educational and financial opportunities we all deserve.