Helping Every Senior Access Financial Aid and Opportunity
The BEACON Initiative - Bringing Economic and Career Opportunities Nearer - connects high school seniors with the support they need to navigate financial aid, apply for scholarships, and plan for life after graduation.
Through trained community volunteers, BEACON ensures that students understand how to complete the FAFSA, apply for Bright Futures, and explore post-secondary opportunities that may otherwise feel out of reach.
Why Financial Aid Support Matters
Every year, millions of dollars in federal financial aid go unclaimed simply because students never complete the FAFSA. For many families, the process can feel confusing or overwhelming.
BEACON helps remove those barriers by connecting students with trained volunteers who walk them through the process step by step.
complete the FAFSA
access grants and scholarships
pursue college, career training, or certification programs
How the Program Works
Volunteers meet with seniors at participating high schools to discuss their post-graduation plans.
Students receive hands-on help completing the FAFSA, applying for Bright Futures, and understanding financial aid options.
Students leave with a clearer plan for college, career training, or entering the workforce.
Volunteers work directly with seniors through classroom sessions, workshops, and one-on-one support.
Volunteer with BEACON
Community volunteers play a vital role in helping students access life-changing financial resources. Volunteers help students:
Navigate the FAFSA
Understand Bright Futures eligibility
Identify scholarships and financial aid opportunities
Plan next steps after graduation
Community volunteers play a vital role in helping students access life-changing financial resources. Volunteers help students:
Volunteer Responsibilities
Attend an in-person training which covers the basics of financial aid forms with a focus on the FAFSA, FAQs & good resources.
Sign up for a shift (or two!). There are in-class, lunch-time & after-school opportunities coming up.
Get familiar with the FAFSA website & form. Complete it for yourself (without submitting) for an idea of where students may need help.
