This article is the fourth part in a series NCAN is producing in February 2025 for Black History Month. Read Parts One, Two, and Three.
Getting to and through college can be challenging, especially for students from historically marginalized and disadvantaged backgrounds. Many students, particularly those who are the first in their families to pursue higher education, face unique
obstacles. Fortunately, several nonprofit organizations provide essential academic, financial, and emotional support to help these students succeed.
In this article, we highlight five nonprofit programs that primarily serve Black students and are members of the National College Attainment Network (NCAN). The following organizations provide mentorship, financial assistance, and academic support to
help students achieve their postsecondary goals:
While each program offers unique services, they share a common goal: ensuring students from underrepresented backgrounds - including Black students - have the resources they need to succeed in college and beyond.
College Beyond (New Orleans, LA)
College Beyond offers academic and emotional coaching, as well as micro-grants, to help students graduate. In Louisiana, white students are nearly 50% more likely to complete college than students of color. To address this disparity, College Beyond has
provided over 600 meals and held more than 800 coaching sessions to support students through their college journey.
College Bound (Baltimore, MD)
College Bound provides college access events, a multi-year support network, scholarships, and academic counseling to help Baltimore, MD students achieve their educational goals. Full-time college advisors work in 21 public high schools, and the organization
has impacted over 67,000 students. With Black residents making up the largest racial demographic in Baltimore, College Bound
plays a critical role in expanding college opportunities in the city.
College Now Greater Cleveland (Cleveland, OH)
College Now Greater Cleveland offers financial aid guidance, scholarships, and mentorship programs for high school students, college students, and adult learners. The organization provides academic advising, career exploration, and resources for parents
to help students succeed. In Cleveland, OH, where Black residents represent over 40% of the population, College Now serves as a key resource in
bridging educational gaps.
OneGoal (Chicago, IL and 10 States)
Although based in Illinois, OneGoal serves students in 10 states through mentorship and leadership development programs. The organization’s initiatives - OneGoal Program, OneGoal Leadership Network, and OneGoal Essentials - have impacted over 150,000
students, providing guidance and resources to help them persist in college and achieve their long-term goals.
Project GRAD Akron (Akron, OH)
Founded in 2002, Project GRAD Akron provides support systems, scholarships, and college readiness programs for students from kindergarten through their careers. The organization’s Bridge to Literacy program helps improve early reading levels, while its
middle and high school initiatives focus on mentorship and academic preparation. With nearly 30% of Akron’s population identifying as Black, Project
GRAD plays a vital role in ensuring equitable access to education.
Finding the Right Support Program
Students seeking additional support in their college journey can explore these and other nonprofit programs to find the best fit for their needs. To identify the right program, students may want to ask themselves:
Would one-on-one mentorship outside my college or university help me navigate challenges?
Do I need academic tutoring or coaching to excel in my classes?
Would career guidance from an external mentor help me plan my future?
What financial assistance programs can help me afford college?
These questions can guide students in selecting the right nonprofit college transition program to support their success. By taking advantage of these resources, students from historically marginalized communities can access the guidance and financial
support they need to earn a degree and achieve their dreams.
Email to a Friend