GrantTalk is thrilled to introduce Traci Lanier, the Vice President at 10,000 Degrees. 10,000 Degrees is dedicated to closing the educational opportunity gap for students from underserved communities, in short, they help low income students go to college. In this episode, Traci shares the story behind the organization and how their grant-writing efforts have propelled their vital community mission forward. Settle in with your host, Libby Hikind, Founder and CEO of GrantWatch for this inspirational chat!
10,000 Degrees: A Vision for Change
10,000 Degrees, it’s not just a title; it’s a vision. The organization was founded with the goal of helping 10,000 students in each community they serve achieve a college degree. Traci explains, “Our work is about more than just getting students to college; it’s about guiding them through it and beyond.” 10,000 Degrees started just north of the Golden Gate Bridge 40 years ago and now reaches students across the San Francisco Bay Area!
Helping Low-Income Kids Go to College
The journey begins in local high schools, where 10,000 Degrees steps in to demystify the college process for students and families, particularly focusing on securing financial aid. Traci emphasizes the importance of this step: “We work to ensure students get as much free money as they’re eligible for, whether it’s through the federal FAFSA or the California Dream Act application.”
However, the support doesn’t end there. 10,000 Degrees also pairs students with near-peer mentors, many of whom are alumni of the program. These mentors stay with the students from the moment they accept their college admission to graduation and beyond. This model has proven effective, with nearly 40% of their students starting at community colleges, pursuing various certifications, or transferring to four-year institutions.
10,000 Degrees Is a GrantWatch Success Story
GrantWatch has played an important part in helping 10,000 Degrees secure funding for its programs. Traci shares how their dedicated development volunteer, Linda Steck, constantly monitors GrantWatch for new opportunities. This diligence pays off with notable successes, including $85,000 in awards from four grants.
Key Organizations Mentioned:
- The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation: Enabled expansion into the San Jose community, bridging a gap in their regional presence.
- Speedway Children’s Charity: Supported local students in Sonoma County.
- Cisco: Fostered a valuable relationship and secured a small event sponsorship.
- Hearst: Funded projects in San Francisco and is pending renewal for continued support.
Traci notes, “We had the track record, but not in that region. The Weinberg Foundation took a chance on us, and it made all the difference.”
Looking Ahead: Expanding Support for Students
When asked about the future, Traci expressed a desire to serve even more students. “We received over 6,000 scholarship applications this year but can only award 4,000. My wish is to find ways to support all of them.”
For those interested in supporting 10,000 Degrees, Traci encourages visiting their website, 10000degrees.org. The organization’s success story is a testament to the power of education and the impact that dedicated support can have on students’ lives.
Final Thoughts
As the episode concludes, Libby expresses her pride in 10,000 Degrees and the role GrantWatch plays in their success. She also offers a valuable tip to grant seekers: “List the grants you’ve already received to show your credibility.”
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from those making a difference through grants. Subscribe, like, comment, and share to keep the conversation going and support organizations like 10,000 Degrees.
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