Changing lives of at-risk youth through higher education
Together we can bring hope and a brighter future
Many at-risk youth are capable of success but lack of opportunity keeps them in poverty
Lack of Support
First generation students are limited
Many low-income students attend high schools where few at-risk students aim high and those who do have a lack of support from family, friends, and the educational system.
Low Degree Attainment Rate
Few graduate from higher education
Ten years post high school graduation only 14% of low-income students have earned a bachelor's or higher degree.
High Unemployment
High school degree is not enough
The unemployment rate for high school graduates age 25 and older has consistently been about double the unemployment rate for college graduates.
WISE UP knows higher education will lift students out of poverty providing a better life for them and their families.
That is why WISE UP will provide assistance with...
Admissions
We will assist students in determining the field of study that is best suited for them, then select appropriate colleges to apply to, edit essays, and help fill out all applications.
Financial Aid
Our experienced team with industry knowledge will work with students and colleges to fund all expenses.
Mentoring
All students will have an adult mentor to provide guidance and support throughout the student's entire college career.
Your donation makes a difference!
- Each WISE UP College Counselor can help 25 students. Your donation will enable us to hire more Counselors so we can help more students.
- WISE UP desires to equip students for success. Your donation will enable us to provide students with laptops and other supplies.
- Your donation will help fund WISE UP's Financial Aid Counselor who works to get students the most scholarship, grant, and financial aid money.
"I want to be the first person in my family to go to college."
- Markus, WISE UP student
- Markus, WISE UP student
Most of the students WISE UP works with are first generation college students. Not having parents who went to college puts these students at a disadvantage. Many also come from single parent, low-income households. These students are intelligent and motivated, they just need guidance to help them with the college process. Our supporters enable them to get the guidance they need so that graduating from college becomes a life changing reality.