GRASP (www.grasp4va.org), a career and college access organization, is encouraging high school seniors to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as a first step toward their postsecondary education/training goals. The updated FAFSA for high school seniors is available beginning October 1. “Millions of students who are eligible for aid fail to file the FAFSA each year, leaving “money on the table” that could be supporting their postsecondary education. (National College Attainment Network)” Also, “Completion of the FAFSA may help predict a student's success in postsecondary education. Ninety percent of high school seniors who complete FAFSA attend college directly after high school, compared to just 55% of FAFSA non-completers.(NCAN)” GRASP Advisors can assist students/families, with FAFSA completion, virtually and free of charge.

Our request for you is to highlight this information to your audiences so we can ensure career and college access for all. Attached is a FAFSA image that can be shared on your social media platforms (quote to use with image is below) and a listing of Virginia school systems served by GRASP advisors. This link provides a video segment about GRASP.(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2_7AS7Rcc0&t=9s)

Although many school buildings are closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, GRASP’s financial aid advising services are available virtually throughout the academic year. Email us at advising@grasp4va.org or call 804-923-0059 for assistance, or contact the school counseling office to make an appointment with the school's GRASP Advisor.

Thank you for your support for all students, and please let me know if you would like more information about GRASP services that are free of charge to students/families.

GRASP MISSION

Helping all students and their families, with a focus on financially disadvantaged households, by:

• Giving inspiration and hope that their goals are attainable;

• Assisting them with the financial aid process and awarding scholarships; and

• Supporting them in the attainment of their post-secondary goals at the lowest possible cost.

GRASP’s goal is to ensure that every student has an equal opportunity for continuing education after high school, regardless of financial or social circumstances.

For more information:

Anne Michie - Chief Compliance and Program Officer

GRASP

2821 Emerywood Parkway, Suite 204

Richmond, VA 23294

804) 527 7785

www.grasp4va.org

Virginia School Systems served by GRASP Advisors

Augusta County Public Schools

Bath County Public Schools

Brunswick County Public Schools

Buckingham County Public Schools

Charles City County Public Schools

Charlotte County Public Schools

Chesterfield County Public Schools

CodeRVA Regional High School

Colonial Beach Public Schools

Colonial Heights Public Schools

Cumberland County Public Schools

Dinwiddie County Public Schools

Essex County Public Schools

Goochland County Public Schools

Halifax County Public Schools

Hanover County Public Schools

Henrico County Public Schools

Highland County Public Schools

Hopewell City Public Schools

Isle of Wight County Schools

King and Queen County Public Schools

King William County Public Schools

Lancaster County Public Schools

Lunenburg County Public Schools

Maggie L. Walker Governor's School

Martinsville City Public Schools

Mecklenburg County Public Schools

Nelson County Public Schools

New Kent County Public Schools

Northstar Academy

Northumberland County Public Schools

Patrick County Public Schools

Petersburg City Public Schools

Powhatan County Public Schools

Prince George County Public Schools

Richmond County Public Schools

Richmond Public Schools

Staunton City Schools

Sussex County Public Schools

Waynesboro Public Schools

Westmoreland County Public Schools

Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools