Reaching Higher Program
Mentoring refugee youth in their aspirations toward higher education
Due to cultural barriers and limited academic resources, qualified refugee youth often miss the chance for higher education. In Reaching Higher, each refugee youth is paired with a college student mentor for a series of practical workshops on higher education topics, helping them to translate their strengths, skills and experiences into powerful tools to shape their future.
“Bendu and Albert are two of the most inspiring people I’ve ever met. The significance they place on education not just as a personal improvement but even as a civic duty and a way to contribute to society really strengthened my commitment to my own education. I really value the friendship that we developed.”
-Arianne Peterson, Reaching Higher Mentor
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Due to language and cultural barriers, unfamiliarity with the US education system, and limited networks and economic resources, qualified refugee youth often have few opportunities to advance their education. In addition, institutions of higher education miss out on the unique cultural, intellectual and personal contributions that this diverse and resilient population has to offer. Reaching Higher! shows refugees, particularly youth, that higher education is indeed within their reach and helps translate their strengths, skills and experiences into powerful tools to shape their future.
Each year, refugee participants who have demonstrated an interest in pursuing higher education are enrolled in Reaching Higher! During the monthly full-day workshops, each participant is paired with a university student mentor who provides individualized assistance and encouragement.
We are pleased to announce the support of the Jaburg & Wilk Foundation and the Eloisa Diaz Educational Foundation! By providing for program costs and scholarships for Reaching Higher Scholars, they are making higher education a reality for refugee youth.