1 minute read
GEAR UP
by valleyopp
geAr up works with students in grades 7-12 at several middle and high schools in Springfield and Holyoke to offer mentoring and support with the entire college and financial aid process. in 2022, geAr up held its annual massachusetts College Application Celebrations (mCAC) at six high schools in Springfield and Holyoke, the first in-person mCAC events since COVi D. the mCACs require collaboration between geAr up advisors, guidance, administration at the high schools, and local colleges and universities willing to participate in the program’s instant acceptance program and on-the-spot scholarship offers.
According to mary Colon, geAr up regional Coordinator, “the best part of this event is seeing students who did not think they could ever go to college, walking out with an acceptance offer. the confidence and motivation to continue to do better is evident on their faces as they check out. Other students receive instant scholarship offers, students receive help with the applications, their FAFSA, finishing their essay letters, anything they need to finish to make them successful at this event.” this past year’s events achieved the highest numbers to date, with 604 student participants, 1,305 college applications submitted, and 817 instant college acceptances. Students were also offered over $10 million in scholarship funds from participating colleges and universities.
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Participant spotlight:
Runway for Diapers
In May, WIC hosted a Runway for Diapers Kids Fashion Show at the Castle of Knights in Chicopee. Admission to the event was a pack of diapers, which was donated to VOC’s Diaper Bank in Holyoke.
Diaper Bank
The Diaper Bank was created due to the increased need for diapers and lack of other resources, and is available to everyone in the community. The Diaper Bank is open regularly, and staff can also access diapers for existing VOC clients. Tufts has been a strong supporter and partner of the Diaper Bank since its inception.
Feedback from an Early Ed participant, who also benefited from the Diaper Bank:
My children Ezequiel and Lyanna attend the Churchill Early Education and Care Center. It is the best childcare my children have attended. I was also given a gift card and diapers when I needed it. Teachers and staff members are always welcoming. My kids have had a wonderful experience at the center.”
Tanya Early Ed Parent
