Local nonprofit invests in teens trying to beat the odds
Chance of a lifetime

Society has systems in place, predominantly punitive, to catch youth who do not follow the rules.

But what is in place to help young people who make positive progress despite facing severe obstacles at home?

Not enough, which is why If Given a Chance was created.

The Napa-based organization was founded in 1995 to discover, recognize and support high school graduates who have demonstrated success in overcoming tremendous challenges.

Since 1995, If Given a Chance has served more than 280 Napa Valley teens through a three-part program that guides students to achieve and maintain success in post-high school education and training programs.

If Given a Chance offers a lifeline for high school graduates who have overcome a tremendous personal challenge and demonstrate a commitment to continuing their education. Youth who have made poor choices, suffered abuse, alienation and/or neglect often enter the post-high school years with little or no emotional, moral or financial support. This program meets the essential needs of these students by providing funds to be used for food, shelter, transportation and technology while attending school.

These necessities are often a barrier to continued college enrollment and are not met by traditional avenues of educational funding models, such as financial aid.

In addition to financial support, the If Given a Chance Program establishes a relationship with students to guide their path from high school graduation through college or a vocational training program.

On May 7 at the Napa Valley Marriott, If Given a Chance presents its annual banquet honoring this year's awardees and celebrating others who have been through the program. Call 260-5656 or visit www.ifgivenachance.org for more info.

Award recipients come from every high school including alternative, traditional and community schools throughout the county. Students are nominated by adults who know them personally and who often speak to their life story in all its complexity. Nominators range from probation and police officers to counselors, teachers and foster parents.

If Given a Chance students mirror the demographics of the community in which they live:

• 56 percent are Caucasian
• 42 percent are Hispanic
• 2 percent are African American, Native American, Asian, or Pacific Islander

All If Given a Chance students have overcome a life challenge such as gang affiliation, a severe medical condition or a challenging family or living situation. The specific challenges these youth have overcome are significant:

• 57 percent suffered abuse of some kind
• 49 percent were affected by their parent's substance abuse
• 44 percent dealt with substance abuse or addiction
• 40 percent suffered neglect
• 38 percent experienced physical abuse (22 percent of those dealt with sexual abuse)
• 30 percent witnessed domestic violence
• 29 percent were involved with the juvenile justice system
• 27 percent came from foster care
• 17 percent have been homeless

While If Given A Chance continues, the need for funds and support is growing. College tuition is rising; University of California tuition increased 9.3 percent in May and will increase another 32 percent by November 2010, while financial aid budgets are shrinking. Additionally, staff and course cuts make it difficult to enroll in required classes, thus lengthening the time it takes to meet graduation requirements.

Providing the funds, guidance, and accountability between students and the program administrators, If Given a Chance ensures that committed but vulnerable students are provided relevant tools to stay enrolled in school and succeed.