Empower & Equip Single Parents Enrolled in College

When you donated to empower and equip single parents enrolled in college, you were not only making a difference in their lives, but you were also making an impact on their children. A few years ago, HOPE participant, Laverne graduated from college as her daughters were graduating from high school and were accepted into Clayton State. And, just last month, Laverne's son graduated from high school and is preparing to enter college to pursue an engineering degree. The power of education and the example it sets for the children of single parents helps ensure that the gifts you provide aren't just short-term Band-Aids -- they are life-changing for both parents and their children.

One of our long-time monthly donors, Sandra, was recently updated on the progress our participants were making this year -- from upcoming graduations to job placements, to participants' children preparing to attend college themselves. She remarked, "that is why I continue to support this organization, and will continue to give, and hopefully, give more one day soon because what it does is phenomenal!"

To demonstrate H.O.P.E.'s phenomenal outcomes, consider that the four-year graduation rate for undergraduate students attending a public college or university is just 33.3%. That number grows slightly when evaluating the six-year graduation rate, to 57.6% (U.S. Department of Education). H.O.P.E. participants, however, have an impressive 88% graduation rate which is due in large part to the support you give them. Reducing the burden of rent and childcare expenses, providing financial literacy training, and offering counseling services help our participants persist to graduation. These mission pillars, coupled with their own hard work and dedication, set our single-parents on a path to success, which are wonderful examples for their children to follow.        

We are excited to soon have even more amazing single-parent graduates, as we are on track to celebrate our 50th program graduate next year! We invite you to continue to be a part of their success and join us in that celebration!

With sincerest thanks,

Kenita Smith, Founder & President 

Links:

• H.O.P.E. Website