Campus Rise

In 2016, we will begin supporting high-achieving, low-income students in getting to and through college. Our goal is to make their higher education experience safe, engaged, financially sustainable, and stress-free. What does high-achieving mean to us? It varies. We typically suggest that students have a minimum of a 3.0 GPA and consider 3.5 and above highly competitive. However, we also factor in work and volunteer experience -- as well as other life circumstances, such as resilience through adverse environments. We verify grades through the students' academic institutions, and require each applicant to sign a release form. We also verify work/volunteer references. And what does low-income mean to us? Well, first we verify household income through W-9 submissions and the institution's financial aid office. (After receiving release forms.) If our student's custodial parent is single and makes less than $37,450 per year, the student is eligible to apply. (Less than $74,900 for married parents filing together.) Our highest need students -- under $9,225 for single parents and $18,450 for married parents -- will receive priority. Our decisions are based on a combination of the student's need and personal achievement. If you'd like, I can send you an application. Contact me at director@youthpovertyproject.org. We will be selecting our first students in January. Our students will have access to: - Academic scholarships - Personal mentorship - Educational consulting - Access to low-cost housing - Acess to internships, jobs, and research experience - 15 colleges worth of Campus Rise peers - Professional networks and references - Emergency food assistance - One-on-one tutoring - Campus events - Volunteer opportunities - Access to free or low-cost textbooks - Continued support until graduation - Increased support until graduation