Mission
To support economic development by increasing the number of City of Peoria high school graduates who complete a college or vocational program, thereby delivering a more skilled workforce for Peoria and our future.
Vision
Peoria’s economic growth relies on an educated and skilled local workforce. But declining enrollments and falling graduation rates in Peoria’s school district, high poverty and family flight stand to leave the city with fewer skilled workers. Conversely, an increase in the number of local young adults with postsecondary degrees can translate into greater job opportunities, higher incomes, new home buyers and a reduction in crime. Ultimately, the program will help to alleviate poverty and provide skilled workers to live and work in the Peoria area.
Peoria Promise is a tuition reimbursement program available to City of Peoria high school graduates to attend Illinois Central College. According to Harvard University, 70 percent of available jobs in the country only require a two-year certificate. Forty-eight percent of Peoria Promise students are the first in their family to attend college.
Applicants must be a resident of the City of Peoria for a minimum of four years and graduate from high school, either public or private. Homeschool and GED students are now eligible as well. To verify eligibility, go to peoriapromise.org/eligibility.
- Since 2008, Peoria Promise has provided over $5.9 million in support to over 3,900 students.
- Peoria Promise is 100% donor-funded program with NO local state or federal tax support.
- 91% of students successfully complete coursework entering the workforce or transfer to a four-year program.
- 75% work in the City of Peoria, including 90% in the Peoria region.
- Top career paths include healthcare, education, engineering, community service, skilled trades, and business.
- 73% of students work while in school, with 20% working in field of study. Diversity of students is 64%.
How to Help
To donate/invest in Peoria Promise, visit peoriapromise.org to make a contribution.
Designate “Peoria Promise Foundation” in the annual United Way campaign, send your monetary gift directly to our office, or support fundraising events as they are announced.
Peoria Promise Foundation
1718 N. Sterling Avenue
P.O. Box 10226
Peoria, IL 61612
(309) 999-4022
peoriapromise.org
[email protected]
Facebook: @peoriapromise
M J Schettler, Executive Director
Natalie Thomas, Director Operations/Student Affairs
