Last year, about 50% of Florida’s public-school students had completed the FAFSA by July 3, 2021. According to Florida College Access Network estimates, high school graduates in Florida leave behind over $100 million (!!!) in Pell Grants each year because they do not complete the form. ASPIRE Capital Region’s BEACON program aims to change that.
BEACON (Bringing Economic and Career Opportunities Nearer) is a program that ensures high school students graduate with a college or career plan and know how to apply for financial aid to assist in accomplishing their plan. This is accomplished by connecting high school seniors with trained volunteers from the community who go over programs like FAFSA, Bright Futures, and other post secondary opportunities one-on-one with the students.
November 30 – December 2, volunteers will be on Godby High School’s campus to meet with each and every senior. Volunteers will be trained ahead of time and can choose shifts that work with their schedules.
If you are interested in impacting the life of high school seniors by volunteering as a BEACON mentor this fall, please contact Katie Harwood at kharwood@talchamber.com.
