Our Program
In 2024- 2025, IGAC is providing funds, workshops, guidance and emotional support to 10 high school students and 28 college students as they pursue their education. Applications for interested high school juniors will open in January 2025. High school teachers and counselors, as well as parents and friends will be invited to nominate a deserving student at that time.
IGAC High School Students
Every year, IGAC selects juniors from all Napa County high schools to participate in the program. Students apply in the spring of junior year and participate in workshops and one-on-one coaching throughout their senior year to help them prepare for and enter college or professional/technical school.
IGAC students are selected based on the following criteria:
They have faced adversity and dealt with challenging circumstances.
THEY HAVE DEMONSTRATED POTENTIAL AND A DESIRE TO COMPLETE COLLEGE OR VOCATIONAL SCHOOL.
They have documented financial need.
They are a junior with a 2.0 or better GPA and be on course to graduate from a Napa County high school
They have plans to enroll full-time (12 Units) at a community college, four-year university, or vocational certificate program.
Our Topics
As high school seniors, IGAC students participate in monthly coaching sessions with a guidance counselor who assists them to apply for college and financial aid.
College Matching
Identifying student interests and researching colleges that match their interests.
College Writing
Writing the college essay for common applications
School applications
Applying for schools of their choice
Financial Aid
Researching and applying for financial aid, grants, and scholarship opportunities
Recommendations
Asking for recommendations and references
Decision Making
Determining which college to attend and which financial aid packages to accept
Additional Support
In addition to the guidance counselor, the Student Services Manager will provide support to the students by coordinating a webinar series with topics like basic life skills, managing finances, career exploration, and mental health. The Student Services Manager will be available as a mentor and to provide a support system throughout senior year.
High school students receive a scholarship of $1,000 for reimbursable expenses related to applying for and entering college or technical school.
“I know it’s important for me to continue my education because I want to be able to play a bigger role in my community and play a bigger part in what’s happening in the world, and I know college is that path for me.”
— DAISY ZAMORA, 2019 RECIPIENT
IGAC College Students
In September of 2022, If Given A Chance formed a partnership with Students Rising Above, a San Francisco based nonprofit whose mission aligns tightly with that of IGAC. SRA provides student services for all IGAC college students as they complete their journey through college completion and their launch into graduate school or careers.
Benefits and Services
Our IGAC college students participate in the Students Rising Above SOAR program, and they have access to a host of benefits and services, including:
Meetings
Monthly meetings with peer mentors and fellow students
Therapists
24/7 access to mental health therapists
Workshops
Workshops on everything from college admissions, career choices and financial independence, to stress reduction and mental health
Financial Aid
Online Community
Access to The Hub, SRA’s online resource designed to provide students comprehensive, up-to-date information, personal advisors to facilitate college and career opportunities, and a supportive online community of motivated peers.
Financial Assistance
In addition to participating in the SOAR program, IGAC college students will receive a $2,000 scholarship per year as long as they remain enrolled full time and retain a 2.0 GPA. They will also receive $500 per year from SRA for attending required meetings and completing assignments.