Helping today's youth GRASP infinite opportunities
The goal of GRASP is to ensure that every student has an equal opportunity for continuing education after high school, regardless of financial or social circumstances.
Our Primary Program: In-School Advising
GRASP advisors, the heart of the program, are placed at participating Virginia high schools, schools for students with disabilities and Boys and Girls Clubs. These part-time professionals are adept at navigating the college financial aid system and the processes required to make a post-secondary educational plan a reality.
Advisors assist students and their families with the financial aid process, primarily through individual in-school meetings, but also through presenting financial aid seminars in libraries and other public forums. Advisors access institutional, federal, state and community resources to allow students to implement an education plan beyond high school.
Already have an appointment? Download and complete
the Student Date Sheet, and take it to your appointment.
College Success
Our College Success Program is a way that we stay in touch with our students once they begin their post-secondary education. We have a College Success Advisor who maintains contact with the students, helping with the transition to post-secondary schooling as well as with re-filing the FAFSA and applying for scholarships for subsequent years of schooling.
Our New Early Commitment Program
GRASP is excited about the SOAR Virginia SM program that encourages students to strive for and plan for a post-secondary education. A pilot program during the first few years, the 13 pilot schools will each choose a limited number of 10th grade students . These students will make a commitment to achieve good grades, do community service, and stay out of trouble. In return, at the end of the year Virginia 529 savings plans will be opened in their names. Students who successfully remain in the program through high school can potentially receive $2,000 towards their post-secondary education.
According to U.S. Government statistics, people with a bachelor's degree will earn almost one million dollars more in their lifetimes than those with a high school diploma.
Library Programs
For students and families who need to meet with a GRASP advisor, but can not do so at the high school, we have advisors available at some area libraries. Hours include evenings and weekends, and require an appointment.
Richmond Main Public Library: Tuesdays 5:00 - 7:00 pm beginning October 4th. Call 804-527-7726 for an appointment.
Petersburg Public Library: Thursdays from 4:00 - 8:00 pm. and Saturdays from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm.
Call 804-633-2387 ext. 24 to make an appointment.
Saturday at the Library
The dates for 2012 are January 21, 28, February 18, and 25. Held at the Richmond Main Public Library. Check back for hours and telephone number to call for an appointment.
