INDY PARKS GIVES STUDENTS A COLLEGE CONNECTION

Students tour out-of-state colleges through Indy Youth Achievers Program

Curious about college? Indy Parks and Recreation is offering a unique program to local students interested in furthering their education. Indy Youth Achievers program takes qualified students on two guided tours to out-of-state colleges to gain knowledge about educational options for life after high school.

Nearly 100 youth will check out campus life at Old Dominion University, Duquesne University, Fairleigh Dickerson University, University of Louisville, Western Kentucky University, and Bellarmine University in two guided tours. Leading up to the visit, students will spend several weeks preparing with weekly workshops focused on goal setting, creative thinking, conflict resolution, financial management and interview training. They will also complete community service projects to round out their training.

"These tours give students a helpful perspective about additional educational opportunities that they might not have been exposed to because of financial hardships," said Indy Parks Director Stuart Lowry. "Indy Parks provides programs to keep kids active and engaged over the summer. By giving students a first-hand look at college life, students will be able to picture a brighter future."

The tours will be lead by professional staff to offer perspectives on educational development. The students will tour each university's campus, develop contacts with admissions staff and discuss scholarships and financial aid requirements.

The Indianapolis Parks Foundation received $18,000 for the Indy Youth Achievers program, thanks to the generosity of the Summer Youth Program Fund. The fund is a collaboration among many donor partners, including Lilly Endowment Inc., The Indianapolis Foundation, and Lumina Foundation for Education.

The Indy Youth Achiever College Tour is open to all middle and high school students entering 7th through 12th grade with a minimum 2.5 cumulative G.P.A and enrolled in the 21st Century Scholars Program. Students must also complete an application and staff interviews. Cost is $40 to reserve your seat and covers all food and hotel expenses.