Launched in 2024, Connect Scholars is a life-changing initiative designed to break cycles and build brighter futures for youth in our community. Serving over 1,100 families—including more than 600 young people—the program was born when Dr. Miller noticed many older children returning to the Pass Through Store as new adult clients. A deeper look revealed a powerful truth: over 90% of these students would be first-generation college attendees, and some were the first in their families to graduate high school.

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Connect Scholars walks with students from junior high through college or vocational training, offering wraparound support at no cost. We build relationships with guidance counselors, monitor academic progress (with parent permission), provide tutoring, and guide students through the entire college journey—including FAFSA, scholarship applications, and campus visits.

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Students also attend monthly workshops focused on life skills like financial literacy, public speaking, self-care, and goal setting. We believe in broadening horizons through cultural exposure, mentorship, and consistent encouragement.

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In just our first year, we helped one student go from a 1.7 GPA in high school to a 3.0 GPA in college. Today, five seniors from the Class of 2025 are already accepted into four-year universities.

 

We celebrate their success—and look forward to many more.