Sunday, January 31st was the 6th successful year for College Goal Sunday. This year we held the number of sites to 26 but still adding a few new sites in Franklin, Revere and Upton. Due to current economic conditions, more families are looking for some assistance in paying for college and are completing the required financial aid applications. MEFA continues to be a great partner in spreading the word through their financial aid nights and guidance counselor trainings. In addition, Jessica Hipp from MEFA spearheaded our public relation efforts putting together a press release that was sent out to local and state papers across Massachusetts. More than 60 % of the families who attended stated that they had learned about the event from their high school guidance counselors.

With over 350 volunteers at 26 sites we were able to provide FAFSA assistance to over 1700 students/families. Approximately 60% of this year’s volunteers are MASFAA members. Despite the increased number of volunteers we still continue to hear from site coordinators that more FAFSA experts are needed. One volunteer mentioned, “I really enjoyed the experience. It made me remember why I went into aid in the first place.” The 1700 students/families that we assisted this year is a slight decrease from the prior year. However, this year we had two sites, Amherst and Wakefield that offered their events on an alternate date. Both sites were well attended, helping approximately 200 students and their families. Other sites have expressed interest in holding their event on an alternate date in 2011.

Many families have stated that they have come to College Goal Sunday to have their last couple of questions answered, have someone review their FAFSA before they submit it, or be able to work with a financial aid professional in completing their FAFSA. A majority of the sites are able to offer families access to computers to complete their FAFSA on-line, we continue to make this a priority as we look for new sites in 2011. Each year this event is not only rewarding for the students/families that attend the event but also to the many volunteers who are able to make a difference. One volunteer expressed their feelings stating “It is a great way to keep my personal skills handy and do something for other folk in the community.” Another volunteer stated “I really enjoyed it and plan to sign up next year!”

On behalf of the College Goal Sunday Steering Committee and Site Coordinators through out the state, thanks to the hundreds of volunteers and partners who continue to make College Goal Sunday a successful event each year. We look forward to seeing you next year.