It has never been more important to have a degree or certificate beyond a high school diploma. It has also never been more expensive.

Even with scholarships and loans, there is often a gap between the cost of attendance and the ability of a family to pay for college or trade school. Headwaters established the Next Step Program and the Next Step DreamFund to help deserving students with financial need achieve their dreams of going to college or trade school.

Next Step Advisors work with every student at Rappahannock County High School. From SAT preparation to financial aid workshops, from personal sessions with students and their families to college visits, we help each student find the resources they need to plan the path that's right for them. We help them dream -- then we help them turn their dreams into a plan.

Next Step DreamAwards are given to graduating seniors each June at an Awards Evening and paid directly to the student's college account. All donors are encouraged to attend the Awards Evening, where they can meet the recipients and learn about their educational plans.

Many of our supporters choose to give in honor of a teacher, relative, or other individual who has made an extraordinary contribution to their lives or to the community.

• Download the donation form to print and send with your check
• Donate using your credit card through Network for Good

For further information about helping Next Step, contact:

Amy Silver O'Leary, Coordinator of Grants and Partnerships, Headwaters (The Rappahannock Public Education Foundation: 540-675-1819). Call Amy if you are interested in donating to Next Step, or if you know of a company that might support the program.

Cole Johnson, Executive Director, Headwaters (The Rappahannock Public Education Foundation: 540-675-1819). Call Cole with any administrative questions.