Achieve CU Provides Financial Literacy Sessions for LCCC Program

Empowering Futures: Achieve Credit Union Partners with LCCC’s Bridges to Success Program

Caitlin Blake, College and Career Specialist with Bridges to Success,

We spoke with Caitlin Blake, College and Career Specialist with Bridges to Success, to gain insights into the impactful partnership between Achieve Credit Union and Lorain County Community College's Bridges to Success Program. This collaboration aims to provide invaluable support for high school students as they navigate their paths towards college and career readiness.

Q: How did Bridges to Success start up?

Caitlin: LCCC was approached by Avon High School, recognizing a need for seniors without a College and Career plan. Together, they applied for a grant from the Ohio Department of Education, securing funds to develop Bridges to Success.

Q: How does it benefit high school students?

Caitlin: Bridges students receive personalized attention and guidance from instructors, allowing them to take CCP classes in dual enrollment for college credit. This extra support aids in discovering their career pathways and post-high school plans.

Q: What are some additional opportunities gained from Bridges to Success?

Caitlin: Bridges students receive priority consideration for scholarships like SAIL or STEM scholarships. These programs provide academic and financial support, personalized career and academic advising, along with specialized workshops and boot camps.

Q: How successful has Bridges to Success been so far?

A: Exceptionally successful! After the pilot program in 2021-2022, 58% of students continued to LCCC, with $45,000 in scholarships awarded. The program is set to expand further.

Q: How was partnering with Achieve Credit Union beneficial to students?

Caitlin: Achieve has been a valuable partner, presenting topics like budgeting directly in the classroom. This collaboration brings real-life knowledge to students preparing for life after graduation.

Q: What is the future plan for Bridges to Success?

Caitlin: The plan is to expand partnerships with interested K-12 schools. Enrollments are set to double for the upcoming year, with considerations to involve both juniors and seniors.

Q: How can students become involved with Bridges to Success?

Caitlin: Students can reach out to their high school counselors or contact cblake@lorainccc.edu to get more information and have their questions about the program answered.

Ask us about our financial literacy program

We provide free on-site workshops and financial literacy workshops and programs. If you want Achieve Credit Union to speak to a school, organization, or nonprofit on financial literacy, email our Marketing and Community Relations Specialist, Nick Hurst, at nhurst@achievecu.org.

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About the Author

Nick Hurst

Nick has served as the Marketing & Community Relations Specialist for Achieve Credit Union since 2022. Nick considers credit unions to be valuable resources for local communities. He works to ensure Achieve Credit Union is heavily involved in local events and organizations.

Fun fact: Nick has a lot of side hustles. He is a trivia host in Amherst. He also announces sporting events on the radio.