Supporting College Students in Need: A Guide for Giving Back
As Giving Tuesday and the holidays approach, many people look for ways to make the season more meaningful. Helping college students — especially those who are first-generation, nontraditional, or economically disadvantaged — can make a big difference in their educational journey.
Why Some College Students Need Extra Support
First-generation, nontraditional, and academically or socioeconomically disadvantaged college students often face unique challenges that can hinder their academic success.
-
First-generation students. These students may lack family experience with college, making it difficult for them to navigate the administrative aspects of higher education. Helping first-generation college students succeed is likely to involve knowledge of administrative and academic processes.
-
Nontraditional students. Balancing education with work and family responsibilities can be a tall order. These students are often older and wiser than their classmates and may feel out of place in campus life.
-
Socioeconomically disadvantaged students. Financial constraints pose significant obstacles to education, affecting students’ ability to purchase textbooks, access technology, and cover other incidental expenses.
How You Can Help
Whether you’re a college graduate who has overcome major degree-related challenges in life or you’re simply passionate about making higher education more equitable, there are plenty of ways to help.
Volunteering Your Mentorship and Guidance
Offering academic or career mentorship is a great way of providing help for struggling college students. First-generation and nontraditional students often lack the guidance that others might take for granted. By becoming an academic or career mentor, you can provide insights into navigating college life and coursework, staying focused on goals, and planning for a career. This support can make a world of difference in a student’s chances of success.
Supporting Nonprofits That Work With Vulnerable College Students
Donating to nonprofit organizations that focus on helping marginalized or disadvantaged students is a powerful way to make an impact. Many of these organizations provide essential services, such as mentoring, financial aid, and academic support.
There are many ways to give; choose one that works for you. Just a few options include:
-
Cash donation
-
Memorial or tribute giving (in the name of a lost loved one or mentor)
-
Gift of appreciated securities
-
Planned giving (estate planning)
-
Donation-matching programs through your employer
Help College Students Succeed With On Point for College
On Point for College (OPFC) helps traditional and nontraditional students in the Central New York region overcome the barriers to higher education and careers. We support our students from application through graduation and beyond, empowering them to fulfill their dreams and achieve their potential, which ultimately benefits both individuals and the community.
However, we can’t do it without your help. OPFC is financially supported by individual donations, family foundations, corporate donors and foundations, the United Way in Syracuse and Utica, national foundations, and local, state, and federal governments. We strive to be excellent stewards of the resources and trust that our investors place in us. We work hard to return the greatest impact possible for each dollar donated. Please consider donating today!