by Brooklynn Lambert | May 5, 2026 | News
Blog written by DRDFS Communications Manager, Brooklynn Lambert
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and this year’s theme from Mental Health America, “More Good Days, Together,” is a powerful reminder that mental health is not just about getting through difficult moments. It is about creating more moments where people feel supported, balanced, and able to thrive. A good day can look different for everyone, but for many students, it starts with knowing they are not facing everything on their own.
At Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars, we see the determination and drive our scholars bring to their goals every day. They are managing school, work, family responsibilities, and the pressure of planning for what comes next. For many, the path to higher education also comes with financial stress and uncertainty. These realities can make it harder to experience those “good days,” even as they continue to push forward.
The idea of having more good days is not about perfection or constant happiness. It is about making space for students to feel supported in ways that are real and meaningful. For some, a good day might mean feeling confident walking into a test. For others, it might mean having a moment to rest without guilt, or having someone check in and truly listen. These moments matter, and they add up.
Our scholars show us what resilience looks like, but resilience should not mean doing everything alone. Creating more good days, together, means recognizing that support systems play a critical role in student success. When students feel seen, heard, and valued beyond their academic performance, they are better able to navigate challenges and stay connected to their goals.
There are simple ways we can all help create more good days for students. Taking the time to ask how they are doing and being ready to listen. Reminding them that their worth is not defined by a single outcome. Encouraging balance and making space for rest. Connecting them to resources when they need additional support. These actions may seem small, but they can shape how a student experiences their day and their future.
As a community of donors, educators, families, and supporters, we have an opportunity to be part of this effort. Every scholarship we provide helps reduce financial stress, but our impact goes beyond that. When we show up with empathy and understanding, we help create an environment where students can have more good days and build a stronger foundation for their well-being.
Our scholars are working toward bright futures, and they deserve to get there in a way that supports both their ambitions and their mental health. This Mental Health Awareness Month, we are reminded that more good days are possible when we work together to support the whole student!
by Brooklynn Lambert | Apr 21, 2026 | News
Blog written by Communications Manager, Brooklynn Lambert
This time of year, it can feel like everything is building toward one moment. Graduation is around the corner, plans are starting to take shape, and one of the most common questions seniors hear is, “What’s next?”
For some students, that answer comes easily. For others, it’s a lot more complicated.
There is a quiet pressure that shows up in these final months of high school. The expectation to have a clear plan, to feel confident in it, and to be ready for whatever comes after. But the reality is, many students are stepping into this next chapter with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. They are making big decisions while still figuring out who they are and what they want.
That in-between space after high school ends but before everything else fully begins can feel overwhelming. In those moments, what matters most is not having everything figured out. It is having support.
At DRDFS, that support does not stop at graduation. It continues throughout a student’s entire post-secondary journey. Through our coaching model, students stay connected to guidance, encouragement, and real, consistent support as they navigate new environments, responsibilities, and challenges.
That support can take many forms. It might be someone checking in to make sure a student is staying on track, offering advice when plans shift, or simply being there to listen when things feel uncertain. Scholarships are one piece of the puzzle, but they are only part of what we do. What truly makes a difference is the ongoing connection and the sense that someone is in your corner from start to finish.
There is no single right path after high school. Some students head to college, others enter the workforce, and many adjust their plans along the way. Growth is not always linear, and that is okay. What matters is having the confidence to keep moving forward and the support to keep going when things get challenging.
As seniors take their next steps, it is worth remembering that no one does it alone. Behind every student is a network of people who have helped them get to this point. With the right support system in place, students are not just prepared to start their next chapter. They are supported all the way through it, until they reach their goals and beyond.
by Brooklynn Lambert | Mar 20, 2026 | News
At the 13th Annual Celebration Luncheon, Taylor Smith took the stage as a powerful example of what’s possible when students are given the support, guidance, and opportunity to succeed. A senior at Clintondale High School and a member of the Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars Class of 2026, Taylor shared a story that resonated deeply with everyone in the room – not just because of where she’s going, but because of how she got there.
Growing up in a loving and supportive family, Taylor always knew she was expected to do well in school, graduate, and attend college. But like many students, she wasn’t sure how to turn those expectations into a clear path forward. She had goals but lacked the knowledge to bridge the gap between dreaming about her future and taking action.
That changed during her sophomore year when she joined Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars. With encouragement from her counselor and support from her advisor, Taylor began to learn the “how” behind college applications, financial aid, and choosing the right school. What once felt uncertain began to feel possible.
Through campus visits and hands-on experiences, Taylor gained clarity about what she wanted in a college environment. Visiting Michigan State University helped her realize she was drawn to a large campus setting, while a conversation with representatives from the University of Michigan during Apply Day helped solidify her academic path. Learning more about engineering programs, coursework, and scholarship opportunities made her decision clear.
This fall, Taylor will attend the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where she plans to major in Computer Science Engineering.
While her college decision is a major milestone, Taylor emphasized that the most meaningful part of her experience has been the confidence she gained along the way. Through workshops, mentorship, leadership development, and consistent encouragement, she learned how to advocate for herself, step outside of her comfort zone, and build connections with others. She came to understand that asking for help is not a weakness, but a strength.
Taylor also reflected on the impact of the relationships she built through the program, especially with her advisor, Ms. Carroll, who she described as a constant source of support and encouragement. Having someone who believed in her and pushed her to grow opened doors to new opportunities and helped her stay focused on her goals.
Her journey is a reminder that when opportunity is paired with strong support systems, students are empowered to reach their full potential. Taylor expressed deep gratitude to the donors, advisors, and coaches who invest in students like her, recognizing that their support goes far beyond financial assistance – it builds confidence, direction, and opportunity.
As she looks ahead to this next chapter, Taylor carries with her the lessons, skills, and support she gained through Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars. Her story reflects a transformation from uncertainty to clarity, and from aspiration to action. The future is hers, and she is ready for it.
Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars is designed to do exactly what Taylor’s story illustrates. Through dedicated coaches, committed high school advisors, hands-on workshops, and meaningful campus visits, students gain more than just information. They gain clarity, direction, and confidence. It is not only about helping students find a pathway after high school but also ensuring they feel prepared and confident in the choices they make. That combination of support and opportunity is what makes the DRDFS difference, and it is what empowers students like Taylor to move forward with purpose.
by Brooklynn Lambert | Feb 13, 2026 | News
Blog post written by DRDFS Communications Manager, Brooklynn Lambert
When people think about educational nonprofits, they often think about scholarships. A check awarded. A tuition bill reduced. A financial gap closed. At Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars, scholarships are only part of the story. The true investment, and the true impact, lies in the Next Level Scholars Program.
The Next Level Scholars Program begins in a student’s sophomore year of high school and continues through post-secondary degree attainment. It is not a one-time award or a single year of support. It is a long-term commitment to guidance, accountability, exposure, and opportunity at every critical milestone.
Over the years, DRDFS has served more than 1,500 scholars through this program. Today, students across Southeast Michigan are actively engaged in experiences that prepare them not only to enroll in college, but to persist and graduate.
For many of them, college is uncharted territory. 75% of scholars will be the first in their families to attend a post-secondary institution. For these students, the path to higher education is not simply competitive, it is unfamiliar. Applications, financial aid forms, campus visits, networking events, and long-term planning can feel overwhelming without someone walking alongside them.
The Next Level Scholars Program exists to be that guide.
In the early years of the program, students participate in workshops and campus visits that transform college from an abstract idea into a tangible goal. They sit in admissions presentations, ask current college students questions, learn how financial aid works, and begin to see themselves in spaces that once felt out of reach.
As they enter their senior year and the months that follow graduation, support intensifies. One-on-one coaching becomes a cornerstone of the experience. Students receive individualized guidance through applications, FAFSA completion, scholarship searches, and decision-making. They are encouraged to advocate for themselves, to ask questions, and to step confidently into new environments. The results are meaningful because the support is meaningful.
Every DRDFS scholar graduates high school on time, and nearly nine out of ten enroll in post-secondary education within one year of graduation. Even more telling, the vast majority persist from their first year of college into their second, a milestone where many students nationwide quietly fall away.
These outcomes are not the result of chance. They are the product of sustained relationships, early preparation, and consistent encouragement.
And the support does not stop once a student steps onto a college campus. Scholars continue receiving check-ins, coaching, and intervention when challenges arise. When unexpected obstacles could derail progress, DRDFS remains present. The message is clear: you are not navigating this alone.
Over time, students who once needed guidance become graduates, and often return as mentors, volunteers, and leaders within the organization. This is the ripple effect of a program built not only on access, but on persistence.
When you support Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars, you are investing in far more than tuition assistance. You are investing in a structured pathway that guides students from uncertainty to confidence, from application to enrollment, from enrollment to graduation.
You are investing in:
- Multi-year college access programming
- One-on-one coaching during pivotal transitions
- Campus experiences that expand vision
- Financial literacy and academic preparation
- Ongoing support that keeps students on track
Access alone is not enough. Students succeed when they are prepared, supported, and surrounded by people who believe in their potential long before they believe it themselves.
That is where your dollars go.
They go toward workshops that spark possibility. They go toward conversations that build confidence. They go toward guidance that prevents a setback from becoming a stopping point. They go toward a program that walks beside students, not just to college acceptance, but to degree completion.
And in doing so, they help strengthen families, communities, and the future of Southeast Michigan.
by Brooklynn Lambert | Jan 27, 2026 | News
Blog post written by DRDFS Communications Manager, Brooklynn Lambert
January has a way of making everything feel louder.
New semesters. New expectations. New pressure to “start fresh” and somehow have it all figured out. For many students, this time of year comes with excitement, but also stress, uncertainty, and a lot of questions. At Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars, we want to pause the noise for a moment and share a few things we wish every scholar knew as the year begins.
First, January is not about reinventing yourself. You don’t need a brand-new version of you to be successful this semester. You don’t need perfect goals, flawless grades, or a clear picture of the next five years. Showing up, continuing forward, and doing the best you can with what you have right now is enough.
You don’t need to have everything figured out. College and career paths are rarely straight lines. It’s okay if your plans shift, and it’s okay if you’re unsure. Growth often happens in the moments when answers aren’t clear yet.
Asking for help is a strength, not a setback. Whether it’s reaching out to teachers, using school resources, leaning on family, or checking in with your support systems, no one succeeds alone. Needing support doesn’t mean you’re failing – it just means you’re human.
Progress matters more than perfection. Some weeks will feel productive, while others might feel heavy. Both are part of the process. Small steps forward still count, even when they don’t look impressive from the outside.
Being a DRDFS Scholar is not pressure. It’s a belief. This program is not about expectations to be perfect. It’s about the belief that you belong in higher education and that your goals are worth investing in. That belief doesn’t disappear if you stumble or struggle along the way.
For our scholars, we hope this year begins with a little less pressure and a little more confidence in yourself. You’ve already made it this far, and that matters.
For our supporters and community members, this is the reality many students carry into January. Your support helps create space for students to keep going, even when the path feels uncertain.
Here’s to a year that isn’t about becoming someone new, but about continuing to grow into who you already are!
by Brooklynn Lambert | Dec 22, 2025 | News
As we close out 2025, we want to pause and share our sincere gratitude with the people who make our work possible.
To our donors and supporters – thank you for investing in our DRDFS scholars.
Because of your belief in Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars, our scholars are moving forward with confidence, opportunity, and support behind them. Your investment reaches far beyond financial assistance; it represents encouragement, stability, and a reminder to students that they are not navigating their journeys alone.
The Difference You Made This Year
For many DRDFS scholars, the path to life after high school can feel overwhelming. Your generosity helps remove obstacles and opens doors. This allows our scholars to focus on learning, growth, and pursuing their goals. Thanks to your support, DRDFS served more than 1,450 scholars, helping them reach critical milestones and stay on track toward their post-secondary goals
. The impact of that investment is clear:
- 100% of DRDFS scholars graduated high school on time
- 88% enrolled in post-secondary education within 12 months
- 86% persisted from their first year to their second year
- 249 scholars have earned a credential or degree, and counting
Behind each of these numbers is a scholar whose path was made more possible because someone chose to give. Most importantly, they gain a community that believes in them and continues to show up at every step.
What Your Support Means to Scholars
While the outcomes matter, the human impact matters just as much. This year, DRDFS continued to serve hundreds of scholars across Southeast Michigan, supporting them as they graduate high school, enroll in post-secondary education, persist through challenges, and work toward earning credentials and degrees. These outcomes are a direct reflection of your commitment and generosity. As one scholar shared:
“One big thing I’ve gained from Dollars for Scholars is support – for school, college, and everything in between.”
Your generosity provides more than resources; it provides reassurance, encouragement, and stability when scholars need it most, helping ensure they not only start strong, but continue moving forward with confidence and purpose. Time and again, scholars tell us how much it means to know someone believes in them. Your investment sends a powerful message: You belong here. Your goals matter. And your community is behind you.
That message can be just as impactful as financial support, carrying students through moments of doubt and inspiring them to keep going.
With Gratitude, Looking Ahead
Every contribution – large or small – adds up to lasting impact. Your investment strengthens our scholars, supports their ambitions, and helps ensure they are equipped to move forward with confidence.
From all of us at Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars, and from the scholars whose lives you’ve helped change, thank you for investing in our DRDFS scholars. We are deeply grateful for your continued support.
Click here to view our 2025 Impact Report.
by Brooklynn Lambert | Nov 13, 2025 | News
Blog written by DRDFS Awards Manager, Erin Talbot
Each November, during National Scholarship Month, we celebrate the impact of scholarships. Scholarships don’t just help students pay for college, they change their trajectories. At Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars, we’ve witnessed this firsthand. By awarding significant scholarship support and pairing it with coaching and other wrap around supports and resources, we help students access post-secondary education and obtain degrees.
Scholarships Matter
Scholarships help reduce student loan burdens, increase college access for students, and support persistence through graduation. One analysis concluded that “grant aid increases the probability of student persistence and degree completion between two and three percentage points and estimates that an additional $1,000 of grant aid improves year-to-year persistence by 1.2 percentage points[i].” Another study noted that scholarships are “one of the most effective tools to increase access to higher education for disadvantaged students” and that the benefits of scholarships extend beyond enrollment, to affect better academic performance and reduced financial stress[ii]. When students receive financial support in the form of scholarships, they’re more likely to enroll, stay on track, and complete their degree. And we see this with our scholars. 87% of DRDFS scholars enrolled in post-secondary education within 12 months of high school graduation, compared to the national average for students with low-income high schools of 52%. Not only that, but 64% of DRDFS scholars enrolled, completed and/or graduated within six years compared to the national average of just 29% for students from low-income high schools.
Our Impact
DRDFS is proud to support hundreds of students each year, across diverse backgrounds. We award the DRDFS and special scholarships to our high-school graduates headed to trades, two, or four-year programs, and we invest in completion scholarships, so our scholars don’t just start college, but finish college.
One of our scholarship initiatives is the DRDFS Opportunity Scholarship, which is a special scholarship designed to help support our college students beyond just the first year, by helping cover any gaps in tuition that financial aid doesn’t cover. One of our Opportunity Scholarship recipients, Fidel said, “The DRDFS Opportunity Scholarship has allowed me to expand my knowledge my craft of filmmaking by funding me with the means of academic opportunities, workshops, and travel. In addition, I’ve also been able to create connections and hear testimonials with industry professionals that I wouldn’t have if it wasn’t for this scholarship. Nonetheless, DRDFS has had a huge impact in not just my academics but also my professional career.” Another scholar, Maya stated, “The DRDFS Opportunity Scholarship has helped me tremendously! I have been able to continue my education and continue working on my Theatre Arts major. By gaining the scholarship I have extracted many opportunities and internships from staying in school! Without the DRDFS scholarship, schooling would be even more complicated to pay for, but within this scholarship I have been able to stay in school and am almost done completing my first semester as a junior.”
Through scholarship, we can see the impact on our scholar’s enrollment, persistence and graduation. 87% of DRDFS scholars enrolled in post-secondary education within 12 months of high school graduation, compared to the national average for students with low-income high schools of 52%. Not only that, but 64% of DRDFS scholars enrolled, completed and/or graduated within six years compared to the national average of just 29% for students from low-income high schools.
How to Apply & Make the Most of It
If you’re a student looking for scholarship funding, or if you know someone who is, here’s how to take advantage of National Scholarship Month and apply for scholarship opportunities:
- Apply for scholarships that fit your background, interests, or future goals. Even if you’re mostly qualified, apply!
- Create accounts on scholarship search engines to find new opportunities all year.
- Keep track of deadlines and requirements and the scholarships that you apply for!
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Never pay to apply for scholarships –Legitimate scholarships are always free to apply for.
- You never have to pay back scholarships – Scholarships are not loans and do not need to be paid back, ever. If you’re being asked to, that’s not a scholarship!
- Stay organized – Track essays, recommendation letters, and application deadlines.
- Apply early and often – The more you apply, the better your chances at receiving funding.
At DRDFS, we believe that scholarships open doors that might otherwise remain closed. They reduce the financial strain that distracts from learning, allow students to engage academically and professionally, and ultimately push them toward degree attainment and a strong future.
So, this National Scholarship Month, use the resource guide, apply early, tell your story, stay on track and leverage scholarships to help open doors to your future.
[i] Center for Education Policy Analysis
[ii] Center for Education Policy Analysis
by Brooklynn Lambert | Sep 3, 2025 | News
The school year has officially begun, and whether you’re a high school senior preparing for college applications or a first-year college student stepping onto campus for the first time, fall semester is a crucial time. Fall is more than pumpkin patches and back-to-school shopping. The decisions, habits, and mindset you build this semester will shape the rest of your academic year.
For high school seniors, it’s the start of your last year in high school. A time filled with excitement, but also with big responsibilities and major deadlines. You’re in your final year and the choices you make now will directly affect your college journey. If you haven’t already, this is the time to finalize your college list. Make sure you’re applying to a good balance of reach, match, and safety schools. You’ll also want to pay attention to the different types of applications, whether it’s early action, early decision, or rolling admissions, know each of your deadlines! If possible, try to visit campuses either in person or virtually to get a feel for where you might see yourself next year.
Letters of recommendation are another essential piece of the college application journey. Ask your teachers and counselors early and give them two to three weeks’ notice. A great way to help them write a strong, personal letter for you is by creating a brag sheet or resume outlining your accomplishments and involvement. Keep in mind that they’re likely writing letters for other students as well, so the sooner you communicate this, the better!
While you’re juggling applications, don’t let your grades slip. First semester senior year grades still matter. Colleges will request final transcripts, and many scholarships are merit-based, meaning a strong GPA could directly affect your financial aid package. And yes, senioritis is real. If it hasn’t hit you yet, it probably will. The key is to stay focused, even when it feels tempting to just stop because you’re almost at the finish line.
This is also the time to stay organized and stay on top of important financial deadlines. The FAFSA opens on October 1st and for most institutions, it’s due by June 30th. Don’t wait until you’ve been accepted to start applying for scholarships either, there are thousands out there, and many have fall or early spring deadlines. The earlier you begin, the better your chances of getting financial support.
Now, if you’re a first-year college student, your experience this fall looks very different but just as important. You’ve transitioned into a new academic environment, and the structure of high school no longer applies. You’re no longer going to classes for eight hours a day. In fact, you might only have a few classes a week, which means time management is now your responsibility. It’s exciting to have that freedom, but it also comes with the challenge of staying disciplined. The best place to start is with consistency. Go to class not just because you’re paying for it, but because being present and engaged sets the tone for your semester. Professors notice the students who show up and participate, especially those who sit toward the front and ask thoughtful questions. Even if attendance isn’t required, skipping class can and often does catch up with you.
Managing your time effectively is key. Use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of assignments, exams, and important dates. It’s helpful to break larger tasks into smaller, manageable goals throughout the week, rather than trying to tackle everything at the last minute.
Equally important is taking care of yourself. Your academic success is directly tied to your mental and physical well-being. It’s okay to give yourself a break or ask for help when things feel overwhelming. Give yourself some grace – this is the first time you’re doing this, or even might be the first in your family. Feed your body with real meals, not just ramen or snacks, and make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Don’t forget to move your body too, walk to class when you can, get some fresh air, or visit the campus gym. And remember to stay connected to your support system. A simple call to family or friends back home can make a big difference in how you feel.
College campuses offer a ton of resources that you’re already paying for, so take full advantage of them. Academic advising, tutoring centers, and mental health services are all there to support you. Reach out to your professors or teaching assistants, they want to help, and establishing those connections early will benefit you in the long run. Getting involved in campus life, whether it’s through clubs, student organizations, or events, can also help you build community and find your home away from home. Financial responsibility is another big part of your transition. Keep track of your spending, especially on things like subscriptions, food delivery, and impulse buys. Create a monthly budget or spending limit to avoid running short before the semester ends. This teaches habits that will serve you well beyond college.
Whether you’re a senior preparing for your post-secondary education or a freshman learning how to stand on your own for the first time, it’s important to stay organized, communicate clearly, and take ownership of your educational journey. You don’t need to have everything figured out, you just need to show up, ask questions, and be willing to learn! And finally, stay consistent because every step you take now puts you closer to your goals.
Blog written by DRDFS Success Coach, Michelle Garibaldi
by Brooklynn Lambert | Aug 15, 2025 | News
It’s that time of year again! The school year is right around the corner and it’s moving whether you’re ready or not. The good news? You get to decide how you show up for it. No matter what last year looked like, this is your reset button. The first few weeks are your chance to set the tone for your classes, your relationships, and most importantly, your goals.
Refocus on What Matters
It’s easy to get pulled into distractions because they are everywhere! Social media scrolls, group chats, endless “I’ll do it later” moments all want your attention. But focus is a skill, and the beginning of the school year is prime time to practice and sharpen it. Ask yourself what three things matter most to me this year? What do I want to be proud of in December? In May? Write those answers down. Keep them visible.
Know Your Strengths and Use Them on Purpose
Mindset isn’t just about working harder; it’s about working smarter by leaning into what you already do well. Maybe you’re great at talking to people, organizing details, explaining concepts, or finding creative solutions. Decide what your top strengths are and then look for ways to use them in your classes, group work, and study time. When you work from your strengths, you bring more confidence to challenges and you’ll find it’s easier to stay motivated because you’re staying in your lane, not anyone else’s.
Lock In Early
Momentum is a powerful thing. If you build it now, it will carry you later. Show up to class prepared, get your systems in place (calendar, to-do lists, reminders), and make a habit of doing the “hard stuff” first. It’s easier to stay ahead than to play catch-up. This is also the time to set habits that protect your strengths. If you know you focus best in the morning, claim that time for studying. If you thrive when you collaborate, join or start a study group now
Shake Off the Past
No matter what happened last year, that struggle does not define you. Missed deadlines, low grades, or conflicts are lessons — not life sentences. Use them as data because that’s exactly what it is! What worked? What didn’t? What will you do differently this time? Growth isn’t about avoiding mistakes; it’s about learning from them faster.
Begin with the End in Mind
Picture yourself on the last day of this school year. You are walking out of your final class, grades in hand. What do you want to feel at that moment? Relieved? Proud? Confident? Decide now and then reverse-engineer your actions to match that outcome.
You don’t have to be perfect this year but if you want to accomplish all that you set out to do, you do have to be intentional. Get clear on your goals, know what you bring to the table, and make moves that your future self will thank you for. It all starts with a decision. The best time to decide to show up as your best self was yesterday. The second-best time is right now.
Blog written by DRDFS Success Program Manager, Tiffany D. Haddon, MSW
by Brooklynn Lambert | Jul 10, 2025 | News
As we wrap up the 2024-2025 programming year, we’re feeling deeply grateful – for the milestones we’ve hit, the moments we’ve shared, and the momentum we’re taking into next school year.
This year was all about growth, connection, and purpose. Together with our partners, advisers, donors, and students, Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars (DRDFS) made real strides in helping students turn their goals into a reality.
Next Level Scholars in Action
Our Next Level Scholars™ program continues to be the heartbeat of our work. This year alone, it reached 450 high school students and nearly 700 post-secondary scholars. From 10th grade to college graduation, we walked alongside our students, providing tools, coaching, and confidence every step of the way.
This year, our programming was full of impactful moments for our scholars:
- 11 field trips and large-scale workshops, with visits to EMU, MSU, Wayne State, and The University of Toledo.
- 50+ small group workshops bringing resources right into classrooms.
- 14 campus reconnect visits to support and check in with our college scholars.
- 600+ one-on-one coaching sessions covering everything from financial aid to class schedules.
We’re also proud to share that more than 200 DRDFS alumni have now earned a college degree since 2015. This is a powerful testament to persistence, partnership, and the impact of long-term support.
Mission Moments
We leaned into student leadership this year, with scholars emceeing events and leading icebreakers. It’s been inspiring to watch them grow in confidence and build community through these moments. A few standouts: at Suited for Success, alumna Kamaria brought energy and poise as emcee; and at Project Runway, De’Mera, a current sophomore, led a spirited Rock, Paper, Scissors tournament with students she’d just met.
These small but powerful acts reminded us that when students feel seen and empowered, their confidence grows – and so does their sense of belonging. We can’t wait to build on this momentum next year.
Scholarships That Open Doors
This year, we hit a big milestone: $536,000 in scholarships awarded to the Class of 2025! But not only that – this year marked the second year of the DRDFS Opportunity Scholarship. This is a last-dollar award designed to close financial gaps for college-enrolled scholars. In its second year, 24 DRDFS post-secondary scholars were awarded $80,000 to keep them moving forward.
Small Investments. Big Impact.
Since January, we’ve fulfilled 41 Scholar Success Fund grant requests, helping students cover everything from textbooks to transportation. With consistent support and real-life solutions, our scholars are staying the course.
Looking Ahead
We’re gearing up for the 2025–26 school year and we plan on continuing to build on this year’s momentum – with deeper partnerships, expanded programming, and continued focus on connection and belonging. We’re also celebrating growing our team and enhancing career access through initiatives like our new CareerSpring partnership.
To everyone who played a role in this year’s success: thank you. Your belief in our scholars’ fuels everything we do.
“I grew up without a clue of what I wanted to do, or where I wanted to go in life, until I had the opportunity to join Dollars for Scholars my sophomore year of high school. From visiting campuses, to SAT prep, the guidance I received from the program changed my entire outlook.
“From college tours to financial aid, Dollars for Scholars has greatly impacted my path to higher education. As a first generation college student, deciding where I would want to continue my education and figuring out how I would get there was a difficult process. My family and I lacked the time and transportation necessary to visit schools, and this limited me in figuring out my future.
“When joining Dollars for Scholars, I was eager to visit colleges and earn scholarship money. Being able to look at all the different schools with other students I could relate to was so reassuring. Dollars for Scholars was able to answer my questions about the ins & outs of post-secondary education, as well assist me with applications. This extra help was so motivating.
“Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars is a life-changing program. Before high school, I was going down a path that if most kids took, they’d end up either dropping out of school or going to jail. Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars helped inspire me to get on a better path by showing me how to prepare for college. Hearing other students’ stories made me feel like I could be successful both in high school and post-secondary education.