Youth from low-income families and communities have a lower incidence of college attendance and completion than youth from higher income populations. Additionally, rising drop-out rates among low-income youth further reduces their chances for professional and financial success. Not only does this have an immediate negative impact, it also contributes to a self-perpetuating cycle of poverty as the children of these youth are more likely to face the same obstacles and challenges to success.

The rich assortment of enrichment activities, extracurricular programs and preparation courses that are designed to motivate students, develop constructive behavior, lower drop-out rates, and make college accessible are great for the ones that access them. But the resources to expand opportunities for at-risk and disadvantaged youth are needed more than ever and are essential to the elimination of a widening socioeconomic ravine.