By 2020, 65% of all jobs will require post-secondary training and education beyond high school, up from 40% in 2010. Yes, that's next year. Can you imagine what is needed in the next 10 years, when many of our scholars will be graduating from high school?

Baltimore exemplifies how the opportunity gap for middle school students can become a job credential gap by the time those same students reach adulthood. As Baltimore advances into a new era of economic prosperity, fast-growing sectors like healthcare, education, technology, and government are increasing the need for a post-secondary credential. Between 1993 and 2013, these sectors represent 65.6% of job growth for the region and almost all of those jobs have required education beyond high school. Today, there are almost no entry-level jobs for individuals without a Bachelors degree that pay a family-supporting wage. Yet, only 21.6% of Baltimore students get their Bachelors degree.[1] And, although the city is majority African American, people of color are dramatically less likely than White people to graduate college. Only 13% of Black adults and 24% of Latino adults in Baltimore finish a post-secondary degree compared to 51% of White adults.

You may be thinking, Higher Achievement is a MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAM. Yes, because middle school is the last best chance to get on track for college. For 10 years, Higher Achievement scholars in Baltimore have shown that when given opportunities-they rise. They leverage opportunities like mentoring, college trips, and high school placement support to lay the foundation for bright futures. The lessons they learn with us shape their futures in the high schools and colleges they attend, the careers they pursue, and their unwavering commitment to their communities.

We believe education is a human right and can serve as an equalizer. That's why we offer this top-notch rigorous study-proven program to Baltimore middle school students at no cost to the scholar's family.

We can't do it alone. This year we are taking 100 scholars to an overnight college trip to offer exposure and spark curiosity. Your gift will make that happen! Please help us reach our goal and support the dreams of our scholar.