College Now’s work is guided by a dedicated team of leaders who believe in the power of education to transform lives and communities. Our Board of Directors provides vision, governance and strategic direction, ensuring that our mission continues to meet the evolving needs of students and the community. Complementing their guidance, our staff brings expertise, passion and innovation to daily operations. Together, this dedicated team ensures College Now remains a trusted partner in helping students reach their educational and career goals.
College Now helps high school students prepare for college and career with one-on-one advising, scholarship guidance, financial aid support and community-based programs. Whether you’re exploring majors, comparing schools or mapping out your next steps, we’ll connect you to the resources and pathways that fit your goals.
College Now helps middle school students and families build strong habits, explore careers and set goals early. Through programs like GEAR UP and Xplore, students gain guidance, mentoring, and hands-on experiences that prepare them for high school, college and beyond.
College Now provides personalized support to help college students navigate their academic journeys with confidence. From one-on-one mentoring and scholarship programs to dedicated success coaching, we offer guidance, resources and encouragement to help students thrive and achieve their career goals.
Join the College Now Alumni Collective - a vibrant network of graduates who grow, connect and lead together. Access career resources, attend events, build lasting relationships and give back through mentoring and leadership opportunities. Be part of a community that supports your next steps and empowers the next generation of College Now scholars.
It’s never too late to pursue your education. College Now helps adults explore career paths, enroll in programs and navigate financial aid with one-on-one advising, scholarships and tailored support. Whether you’re starting fresh, returning to school or finishing a degree, we’ll guide you toward your goals.
College Now offers free, one-on-one guidance to help you navigate repayment, forgiveness, consolidation and more. Whether you’re lowering payments, getting out of default, deferring loans or exploring programs like PSLF, our experts make the process clear and help you avoid scams so you can move forward with confidence.
Your support empowers students and adult learners across Northeast Ohio to achieve their educational and career goals. College Now serves more than 38,000 individuals each year, and every gift - large or small - directly fuels access to degrees, certifications and meaningful opportunities.
College Now’s network of schools, businesses and community organizations works together to expand opportunities for students across Northeast Ohio. Through these partnerships, we amplify impact — providing scholarships, mentorship and career readiness programs that help students succeed and communities thrive.
Since its founding in 2019, the PAC has united attorneys, accountants, financial planners and other professionals to support College Now’s mission. Members raise awareness of education’s impact in Northeast Ohio, advocate for students and create opportunities through scholarships, estate planning and their professional networks.
College Now’s work is possible because of strong partnerships with individuals, schools, businesses and community organizations. From mentoring and volunteering to workplace giving and sponsorships, there are many ways to support students on their path to success.
Recent grads can give back while building their future through College Now’s AmeriCorps Ohio College and Career Guides program. Guides are placed in schools and community centers to support students toward higher education. Members receive training, professional development, networking opportunities and more.
At College Now, every student’s journey is a testament to the power of guidance, opportunity and support. From first-generation college students to adult learners pursuing new careers, our success stories highlight the resilience, determination and achievements of those we serve.
Explore College Now’s impact year by year through our Annual Reports - showcasing the individuals we support on their higher education journeys, the milestones we reach and the generous donors and partners who make it all possible.
College Now is committed to transparency and responsible stewardship of resources. As a 501(c)(3) organization with an annual budget of nearly $40 million, we prioritize directing funds to programs, scholarships and student support.
Understanding financial aid can be overwhelming, but College Now provides free, expert guidance to help students and families explore, apply for and secure the resources they need to succeed. From scholarships and grants to loans and work-study, our advisors walk alongside students at every step of the process, making higher education more accessible and affordable.
College Now offers renewable, need-based scholarships to high school seniors and adult learners across Northeast Ohio, helping students offset the cost of college and stay on track toward graduation and career success.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is your gateway to federal, state and institutional financial aid. Whether you're a high school senior or an adult learner, College Now is here to help you complete the FAFSA with confidence.
No matter where you are in your journey – in school, out of school or thinking about returning – student loan debt can be overwhelming. College Now is here to help you make sense of your options. We offer free, personalized support for borrowers navigating repayment, default, consolidation, restructuring, forgiveness and more.
by kaitlin stanaitis | Sep 9, 2025
