FY2009 Annual Report
Welcome to A Better Chance
Since 1963, A Better Chance has been opening the door to educational opportunities for thousands of young people of color in this nation. Every year we place about 500 new students (Scholars) and support over 1,900 currently-enrolled Scholars in more than 300 of our Member Schools across the country. After graduation, these Scholars can look forward to a college degree and a real chance at making a difference in their community.
Over our 47-year history, we have also claimed over 12,000 A Better Chance Alumni who have walked through those doors and into leadership positions in all sectors of industry, science and the arts. We strive to create a network for life in which all of our Alumni can connect, learn from each other and propel one another to even greater heights. From Scholars to Alumni, we hope to build a lasting support system for years to come.
Despite the pressures of the current economy, we are proud to report that we were able to place 517 Scholars in the fall of 2009 and leverage over $6.5 million in financial aid from our Member Schools to support these new students. Current Scholars also had the opportunity to attend a series of Career and Workforce Development Workshops, travel internationally to participate in 3-5 week study abroad trips, and be involved in a range of other activities designed to enrich their overall experience with the program.
In 2010, we have even greater sights set—we are looking to recruit more Scholars, engage a wider range of Alumni and be on track to meet our strategic objective to have 3,500 enrolled Scholars in our program annually by the year 2020. The need for access to quality education is greater than ever. This is evidenced by the more than 2,000 applications we received from young people of color all seeking their better chance this year. Your belief in the potential of our Scholars makes it possible for us to turn their hopes into reality. Together, we can help bright young people of color everywhere become leaders for positive change in our global society.
Sandra E. Timmons
President
