L.A. Area Chamber and Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa Announce More Money Available Than Ever At 2009 Cash For College Workshops
During slow economy, L.A. students eligible for up to $4,000 in additional scholarships through MDRC study and by attending Cash for College Financial Aid Workshops
January 28, 2009
WHAT:
The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce will be joined by Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Los Angeles City Council President Eric Garcetti, Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) School Board President Mónica Garcia and dozens of L.A. students and parents to announce that more money for college is available to L.A. students than ever before at Cash for College Financial Aid Workshops held on Saturday, February 7, 2009 at more than 40 locations across Los Angeles. This year, as students and families rely more on financial aid, students are eligible for up to $4,000 in additional scholarships as part of a national research study by MDRC and by attending a Cash for College Financial Aid workshop. Helping researchers understand how to maximize the effectiveness of scholarship programs, the MDRC study — made possible through grants from the Bill and Melinda Gates and College Access Foundations — will evaluate student retention and performance among groups of students receiving scholarships in differing amounts and durations. By attending a Cash for College workshop, students and their families become eligible for the scholarships and all will receive free, one-on-one professional assistance completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and Cal Grant GPA Verification Forms, needed to qualify for federal and state financial aid. Each workshop also offers an AB540 advisor, to help undocumented students maximize the financial aid available to them. Regardless of age, income or immigration status — there is financial aid available for all students. More information on Cash for College workshops is available at www.lacashforcollege.org.
WHO:
Los Angeles Mayor, Antonio Villaraigosa
Los Angeles City Council President, Eric Garcetti
Los Angeles Unified School District, School Board President, Mónica Garcia
Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce President & CEO, Gary Toebben
Cash for College Student Ambassador, La Tonya Blake
Students and parents
WHEN:
Monday, February 2, 2009
10 a.m.
WHERE:
Benjamin Franklin Senior High School
820 North Avenue 54, Los Angeles, CA 90042
(Press conference will take place on steps of school auditorium at the corner of Avenue 54 and Irvington Place)
* Parking available across the street on the track and field.*
VISUALS:
Participation from Mighty Panthers Cheer Squad
Parents and students interacting with Mayor Villaraigosa and other business, education and city leaders