New Futures provides financial assistance to help very low-income youth and young people complete their post-secondary education and become financially self-sufficient. We are focused on filling the gap for students who are often left behind in the educational system due to poverty.

Our philosophy is driven by a vital understanding of education and its important role in the lives of young adults. Research,Data & Publications collects recent studies, reports and surveys that inform our thinking as we award scholarships to deserving students.

The New Futures approach is unique in that it:

• Reaches low-income students who have little access to alternative sources of financing and would not able to continue their education without this support;
• Provides, with the partnership of community-based organizations, a special combination of financial aid and mentoring support for each student.
• Takes into account that not everyone has the same goal toward a college degree. It therefore focuses significantly on non-college, vocational programs that swiftly lead to well-paying, professional jobs;

In a unique model of operation, New Futures has created partnerships with some of DC’s most effective community-based organizations. These organizations nominate their most deserving young people to our Selection Committee, and continue to mentor and monitor those selected throughout their post-secondary education.

New Futures awards scholarships for two types of postsecondary education:

• Vocational – providing 90 percent, up to a total of $12,000, in tuition and associated costs for students pursuing a post-secondary credential or certification. Our students pursue programs in fields such as computer technology, medical assistance and billing, cosmetology and culinary arts.

• College bound – awarding $1,500 per semester, up to $12,000, for students enrolled in community colleges and four-year degree programs. Our award enables financially precarious students to close the gap after Pell grants and other financial assistance have been applied to tuition and other school-related costs.

To learn more, see our 2009 Annual Report (pdf).