Heights Graduation Celebration Honored 500+ Students 

More than a network:
A community.

OUR PROGRAMS: COMMUNITY

Heights is ready to move all Philadelphians towards college and career success with open community programs that go beyond student tools and resources. We’re helping families and communities come together to build a brighter future for Philadelphia with supportive programming that expands opportunity and pathways for all, not some. 

Community sites

(Currently closed for summer but returning in late October/November 2024)

Heights staff are available beyond the classroom for every Philadelphian in need of college access resources. Limited in-person appointments will be available.

Check back in late October/November for in-person appointments.

 

Check back in late October/November for in-person appointments. 

 

Virtual helpline

Make an appointment for virtual access to Heights Philadelphia mentors. Participants can discuss college access topics such as essay support, standardized tests and financial aid. 

The virtual helpline is available for one-hour Google Meet appointments Monday – Thursday evenings from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. Please use the form and the Google Scheduler link to make appointments. 

Step Up to College

The Step Up to College Guide and its accompanying resources (including the Summer Supplement and digital tools) are proven college-going materials for high school students, families, and youth-serving professionals. Together, they serve as a comprehensive collection of college information and resources, with guidance on writing college essays, navigating the FAFSA, and determining the right college “fit.”

Applying to College 101

Heights worked with the University of Penn Admissions Office to launch a new, freely available online course: “Applying to College 101.” Combining the expertise of Penn’s admissions office with Heights’ college and career results, especially focused on Black, Brown, and first-generation students, this new course guides students and families of all backgrounds through the college admissions process.

How we're helping Philadelphians succeed

35,000

Step Up to College Guides to be distributed free across Philadelphia in 2023-2024

$106,000

in sponsorships to support the production, printing, and distribution of the Step Up to College

4,800+

participants have accessed Heights’ “Applying to College 101” course

Programming for Heights students

High school

Receive college and career preparation embedded in Philadelphia high schools, including enrichment, summer programs, and 1:1 advising.

College

Gain a college advisor and connections to greater resources — including career opportunities, stipends, and scholarships — at over 70 distinct institutions across the country.

Careers

Launch a life-sustaining career with a solid path to employment in a variety of industries, plus internships, mentoring, and other job opportunities.

Let’s bring a brighter future to life

Join Heights and see how far Philadelphia students can go.