Collegiate Success Institute: CSI Worcester

The Collegiate Success Institute -CSI Worcester was developed in collaboration with the Worcester Public School’s AVID (Advancement via Individual Determination) college access program, member institutions of the Colleges of Worcester Consortium, and concerned business and nonprofit leaders in response to the need for an after-school mentoring program for high school students that combines quality financial literacy and workforce readiness initiatives with college familiarization and preparation. Unlike traditional programs that are offered in a public high school or youth agency setting, the CSI Worcester model distinguishes itself by taking advantage of its location on college campuses and incorporating college volunteers and business professionals in team-teaching pairs. The unique volunteer pairings of undergraduates and corporate leaders, coupled with the learning experiences that are available on college campuses, exposes students who are traditionally under-represented on college campuses to valuable post-secondary educational and career opportunities.

Description:
During their junior and senior years, AVID students participate in an intensive after-school program at their partner campus. They are transported to the campus for twelve to thirteen afternoon visits each year (3:00 to 4:30). During this time, the volunteers from the corporate partner company deliver researched-based financial literacy and workforce readiness programs that align with the Massachusetts K-12 educational frameworks and work-based learning plans. Faculty, staff and student leaders from the partner college coordinate admissions and financial aid workshops, along with presentations on issues such as residential life, clubs and activities, and academic majors offered at the college.

History:
The Worcester Community Action Council, Inc. was started in 1965 as the locally designated "community action" agency for the Economic Opportunity Act. Today, we serve as an umbrella agency for 21 education and social service programs.

As the federally mandated antipoverty agency for central Massachusetts, our mission is "to stimulate change in the fundamental causes of poverty and to create and provide opportunities for economic self-sufficiency through services, partnership, and advocacy." 130+ employees serve over 70,000 individuals through 21 programs and services annually. Our offices are located in downtown Worcester, Webster, Southbridge, Spencer, Rochdale/Leicester, Millbury and Oxford.

Contact person: Deb Hopkins, Program Director, (508) 754-1176 Ext. 156, (email)

Office fax number: (508) 754-0203

Address:

484 Main Street 2nd Floor Worcester, MA 01608 (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.wcac.net

Directions:

In the Denholm building across from City Hall. In downtown Worcester.   Nearest Bus Stop: 100 feet, 2 minutes minute walk

Miscellaneous Information

Are any opportunities appropriate for youth ages 18 or under? If yes, what age range?
	no

Last updated on November 16, 2009