Ilevelup

Having questions does not mean you are behind. It means you are starting. Build a starter college list, write down what you do not know yet, and use those questions to guide your next conversation.

Read the guide: https://ow.ly/sOSO50Z2tS0

A strong college list compares more than school names. Look at cost, support, location, deadlines, programs, and fit—then bring your questions to a counselor, mentor, or trusted adult.

Read the guide: https://ilevelup.app/ilevelup/how-to-start-a-college-list-without-a-counselor/

No counselor appointment yet? You can still take the first step. Start your college list at home by writing down what matters, comparing options, and preparing better questions for trusted adults.

Read the guide: https://ilevelup.app/ilevelup/how-to-start-a-college-list-without-a-counselor/

A big thank you to Idaho Central Credit Union for continuing to show up as a valued community partner for the August 31, 2026, Believe in Me Charity Golf Tournament at Circling Raven Golf Club.

Your ongoing support helps us turn a day on the course into lasting opportunities for underserved youth in our community. We’re grateful for your partnership, your generosity, and your belief in what’s possible when communities invest in kids.

Learn more or join us: https://believeinme.org/golf

I had the pleasure of speaking with Barin Saxton from Canopy Credit Union today, and I left the conversation truly impressed.

Before our call, Barin was at Lumen High School providing financial literacy training for pregnant and parenting teen students. After that, he did an interview with local news. Then he still made time to connect with me about Believe in Me and our shared commitment to supporting underestimated youth in our community.

What stood out most was Canopy Credit Union’s commitment to meeting people where they are. They are creating a more inclusive financial experience for individuals and families who are too often overlooked by traditional systems.

When I asked Barin what he was most proud of, he shared one of his favorite projects: Canopy’s debit card that allows members to use their chosen name. For transgender and nonbinary community members, that kind of dignity and respect matters deeply.

If you are LGBTQIA+, a young person building financial confidence, or someone who wants guidance from people who look beyond a credit score and get to know the real you, Canopy Credit Union is worth getting to know.

Thank you, Barin, for the meaningful work you are doing in our community.

Up to $50,000 in scholarships now open for first-generation students.

In collaboration with the Trufant Family Foundation, Believe in Me is now accepting applications for its 2026 Scholarship Program for students across Washington, Oregon, and Northern Idaho pursuing college, trade school, or career training.

This scholarship looks beyond GPA and test scores to recognize resilience, leadership, determination, and the barriers students have overcome.

Awards: $2,500–$10,000
Deadline: May 15, 2026
Apply: https://believeinme.org/scholarships

Please share with students, families, counselors, educators, and community organizations.

First generation students face challenges that extend far beyond the classroom.

Academic pressure.
Financial stress.
Family responsibilities.
Isolation.

Success requires a full circle of support.

At Believe in Me, our Community Support Pillar of Caring reflects what iLevelUP is built to deliver through mentorship, guided planning, access to resources, and real time encouragement.

Wraparound services create stability. Stability creates momentum. Momentum creates graduates.

Watch this short video to understand why community support is essential for first generation and marginalized students.

🎥 Watch here: https://youtu.be/tnMrhs1IExE?si=RdWhUKQv3f2RlYks

🚀 Explore iLevelUP: www.believeinme.org

If you work with TRIO, GEAR UP, or first generation students, drop a 🎓 in the comments and let’s connect.

Quick reminder for WA families: you may qualify for more help than you think.

Washington College Grant can support students up to the state median income (WSAC: https://wsac.wa.gov/wcg).

We’re building iLevelUP so families can navigate aid + scholarships without guessing—and get a clearer path from today to what’s next. 🧭
Join the waitlist: https://formstack.io/AA9BD

Washington students can’t benefit from scholarships and aid they never access.

The maximum Pell Grant is $7,395 (Federal Student Aid, 2025–26: https://fsapartners.ed.gov/knowledge-center/library/dear-colleague-letters/2025-02-12/2025-2026-federal-pell-grant-payment-and-disbursement-schedules).

Your donation powers practical navigation so students can turn opportunity into enrollment—not confusion into delay. 💛

Donate: https://givebutter.com/c/OqqAEG