outreach programs at a glance
VSAC's Outreach programs were created in 1969 to encourage and help less-advantaged young people pursue some form of education and training beyond high school. Outreach provides information on career awareness and development, college planning, college selection, and financial aid in individual and group settings. In addition to serving middle and high school students, Outreach also works with adults to help them reach career and education goals.
Who receives outreach services?
Outreach serves any Vermonter who wants information on career planning, education and training beyond high school, the financial aid process, and early college planning. Outreach has separate programs targeting elementary and middle school students, secondary students, adults:
GEAR UP – Vermont State GEAR UP is funded in part by a six-year federal grant totaling $20,960,592 and by dollar-for-dollar, in-kind support totaling $20,960,592 provided by non-governmental sources.
Talent Search – Talent Search in Vermont is a TRIO program funded 30% by a five-year federal grant totaling $2,146,340 and 70% by non-governmental sources providing approximately $5,008,126.
Educational Opportunity Center Program – The Educational Opportunity Center program in Vermont is part of the federal TRIO programs. Approximately half of its funding comes from a four-year federal grant totaling $1,823,808 and the remaining funding comes from other sources.
These programs receive federal funds. We are required to serve mainly students who are first-generation college attendees and/or whose families are low-income. Students are identified and referred through school guidance offices. Adult students are referred by personnel from human service agencies or are self-referred. These programs provide ongoing counseling, with parents of school-aged participants receiving support as well.
For more information about VSAC's Outreach programs:
