Graduation is a time of celebration and new beginnings for high school seniors. However, for many talented and driven students in underserved communities, the path to higher education is filled with obstacles.
“Rock to the Future got me out of a very dark time of my life. About two months into my program of last year, my mom passed. I lost my therapist, my supporter, my best friend, my mom, dude. when I tell you I was down in the dumps, I couldn't get out of bed half the time. I came here and I felt rejuvenated. I felt life, I just felt it breathed back into me. I come here and I feel closer to her.I feel like Rock to the Future is a gift from her and without her, I mean, I wouldn't be here and without you guys, I wouldn't be here either.”
- Graduating RTTF Senior 2023
We recognize the critical opportunity that music plays in building trust and bringing youth through our doors to rock out. And while we have our young people in our music programs, we also support students on their journey towards college, trade school, and post-graduation success.
Rock to the Future breaks down barriers and empowers students to reach their full potential. Through college trips, guest speakers, application and scholarship writing support, access to essential resources, personal encouragement, and the Higher Education Fund - which provides laptops and scholarships for graduates – we aim to make higher education more accessible and attainable for deserving students who may not have the financial means or support network to pursue their dreams. Our student pursue careers in education, technology, business, music, culinary arts, and so much more.
“Rock to the Future opened my eyes to possibilities. I got to go to Temple. That's how I got to decide that I wanted to go to Temple, thanks to the trip that we had here.”
- Graduating RTTF Senior 2023
Through our Higher Education Fund, graduating seniors receive a scholarship of up to $1,500. These scholarships help alleviate the burden of up front costs such as tuition expenses, textbooks, and other educational expenses. By removing financial barriers, we enable students to focus on their studies and fully engage in the college experience. With your support, we will expand the reach of these scholarships and provide opportunities for even more deserving students.
In today's digital age, having the right tools is crucial for academic achievement. Our Higher Education Fund also provides graduating seniors with brand new MacBook, ensuring they have the necessary technology to thrive in college and beyond. These laptops become powerful tools for research, online collaboration, and accessing educational resources. By donating to our fund, you directly contribute to a graduating senior's ability to excel in their studies and successfully navigate the digital landscape of higher education.
The impact of the Higher Education Fund goes far beyond financial assistance and laptops. By investing in these students, you are investing in their futures and the future of our communities. Our graduating seniors break the cycle of limited opportunities and create positive change in their lives and communities. Through higher education, they gain knowledge, skills, and networks that can lead to rewarding careers, economic mobility, leadership roles, and the ability to give back.
To support our Higher Education Fund and make a difference in the lives of graduating seniors, please visit https://givebutter.com/RTTFYES today. Your generosity can help shape a brighter future for these deserving students and our community as a whole.
Together, let's empower and uplift the next generation of leaders and change-makers.
Special thank you to the Katz family for their substantial and continuing support of our Higher Education Fund in memory of Martin Katz.