On Saturday, June 26, the Safe Children Coalition’s Achievers program awarded college scholarships to recent high school graduates as well as returning college students who were engaged with the program as teens. Approximately 30-35 scholarships of $1,000-$2,500 were awarded.

The Achievers program empowers at-risk, minority and other disadvantaged students to set and achieve goals in both their educational and personal lives, encouraging continuous growth in the areas of personal development, college preparation, community service and leadership, cultural enrichment, and career options. The program, which has served the community for more than 30 years, is open to all middle and high school students in Sarasota County. Approximately 200 students were involved with the Achievers program this past year.