BEACON Initiative
BEACON—Bringing Economic and Career Opportunities Nearer—is an initiative designed to ensure high school seniors understand how to apply for financial aid. By leveraging trained volunteers, the program provides crucial guidance on navigating the FAFSA, Bright Futures, and other post-secondary opportunities with the students. This approach helps level the playing field, equipping every senior with the knowledge they need to access valuable financial resources for their future.
​
WHY FOCUS ON FAFSA? – NCAN’s analysis reveals that in Florida, the graduating class of 2023 left a staggering $353,586,858 on the table by not completing the FAFSA. The average Pell Grant awarded to Florida seniors was $5,129 – life changing for a student who wants to continue their education but does not have financial support.
​
The FAFSA is the key to accessing federal grants, loans, and work-study programs, as well as many state and institutional financial aid options. Even for students unsure about attending college, completing the FAFSA keeps their options open and ensures they won’t miss out on potential funding. By reducing the financial barriers to higher education, the FAFSA helps students focus on achieving their academic and career goals, setting them on a path to success and long-term financial stability.
​
NCAN notes that “FAFSA completion is a fundamental step in the path to postsecondary attainment. In turn, the attainment of a college degree is strongly associated with improved financial security and well-being, resulting from higher earnings and lower unemployment rates.”
Make a Difference in a Student’s Future
Volunteer with BEACON!
Do you want to make a lasting impact in your community? Join ASPIRE Capital Region as a volunteer for BEACON. As a volunteer, you’ll work directly with students at Godby, Leon, and SAIL High Schools, providing valuable support as they navigate the FAFSA, Bright Futures, and other post-secondary opportunities. Your time and expertise can open doors to life-changing resources and empower students to achieve their dreams.
​
No prior experience is required, but experience completing financial forms is a helpful baseline. Training is provided! Together, we can ensure every senior has the tools they need to succeed.
​
Sign up today to be part of this meaningful work! Your involvement can make all the difference.
​
Volunteer Responsibilities:​
-
Attend the virtual training on January 10, 2025 from 9:30am-10:30am - Register for Training HERE
-
The training will cover the basics of financial aid forms with a focus on the FAFSA, common FAQs from students and parents, and resources to help students troubleshoot questions. ​
-
-
Sign up for a shift (or two!). There are in-class, lunch-time, and after-school opportunities at Leon, Godby, and SAIL High School - Sign Up for a Shift Here
-
Take some time to become familiar with the FAFSA website and form. A good exercise is to complete the FAFSA for yourself (without submitting) to get an idea of where students may need extra assistance.
-
Sign up for time slots. There are a variety of dates/times with opportunities to assist in class, during lunch, and after-school.
​
Questions? Contact Katie Harwood for more details.
