College Retention Services
In our goal to helping Hartford youth to complete post-secondary education, we provide on-going services to city youth following their enrollment. OPP currently provides services to more than 250 Hartford youth who attend colleges around the region, state and throughout the country. To assist with the challenges of transition and college education financing, OPP provides the following services to youth in college:
- Post high school - Continuing contact and support from ‘home town’ Youth Development Specialists to achieve Pathway Plans
- Assistance with attaining “last dollar/gap funding” financial needs for tuition, books, administrative fees, housing
- Development of relationships with college staff during difficult periods and transitions phases
- Development of summer jobs and internships with area employers to support employment of Hartford college youth
- Conduct career fairs and events that serve to highlight talent and potential of Hartford’s college youth
- Individualized support to reduce attrition and overcome barriers to degree completion
- Development of partnerships with high schools and higher education programs that bridge enrollment, retention and completion of post-secondary credentials
- Verification and tracking of enrollments and academic progress in college through participation in Clearinghouse network
OPP also engages youth and their parents in individual counseling, group workshops, and provides the supports that are necessary for youth as they strive to complete high school, gain entrance to college and obtain a college degree or vocational credential.
