Youth

= = =Youth=

1. Many students do not have the support system necessary to help them navigate the college application and financial aid process. The class could set up a few sessions where students could learn some basics: How to complete an application, what makes a good essay, attention to deadlines, the financial aid process. We could also review applications prior to submission. The news recently covered a process like this where they provided “college coaches”. This is a trend that is not available to students who are the first in their families to go to college or those who have other issues that prevent them from accessing this type of help and support. Process: offer session in the spring as a primer for sophomores and juniors and s\they begin the think about college. Hopefully we would have volunteers to carry this forward in the fall when the students are actually submitting applications. Non Profit – relates to duplication of services and the ability to provide needed support to poor There are many non profits in Lorain County that are competing for dollars to provide services. 1. Form a nonprofit study group that would independently look at the sustainability of Lorain County nonprofits. The scope could be the assessment of an agency financials – three year review, strength and size of board, duplication of services and amount raised. The group could issue scorecards and an invitation to participate in the merger/collaboration talks with other non profits and act as independent brokers to facilitate discussions. Funders could be brought into the project to identify agencies that should have this discussion and encourage their participation.

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION: answer these for each project idea that you are interested in 1. What existing organization would we work with if any 2. Who else is presently addressing this issue if any 3. What are the budget and time implications (how many people would need to devote how much time and any money required?) 4. Do you have other ideas to build on this theme or a particular proposal? 5. Are there any ideas that could be merged 6. Have these ideas sparked any new ideas for consideration