Pickaway HELPS (Higher Education Learning Partners for Students) was recently awarded a $25,000 grant from the Ohio College Access Network as part of the competitive Great Lakes College Access Investment Grant process. One of 15 college access programs across Ohio awarded grants totaling $350,000, Pickaway HELPS’ mission is to assist students and families of Pickaway County in accessing education opportunities beyond high school. Many students served by this program are low income students or would be the first in their family to attend college.

In collaboration with local schools and community partners, Pickaway HELPS provides hands-on assistance and resources for career and college choices, including financial aid. In addition to one-on-one services, other activities include ACT workshops, college visits, financial aid workshops, classroom presentations, and Kids on Campus summer enrichment camp.

The Great Lakes College Access Investment grant has enabled Pickaway HELPS to leverage at least $40,000 in additional local funding and in-kind services. “Strong support from our schools and community partners make it possible to continue our work to help students pursue education beyond high school. It’s a true county-wide collaborative effort,” said Christy Mills, executive director of Pickaway HELPS.

Pickaway HELPS was established in 2006 by the Pickaway County Board of Commissioners, working with Pickaway County Job and Family Services. Led by county commissioner Ula Jean Metzler, Pickaway HELPS is one of 36 traditional college access programs in Ohio that serve more than 175,000 Ohioans ranging from elementary students to adults seeking reentry into the education system.

 “By helping more people complete education beyond high school, we are strengthening the workforce and economic stability of our community,” said Metzler. “This improves the quality of life for all residents of Pickaway County.”