Washington, DC Scholar Application

What is Generation Hope?

Generation Hope began in March 2010 when Nicole Lynn Lewis, a former teen mother who attended the College of William & Mary while raising her infant daughter, decided to put her dream of helping more teen parents beat the odds in motion. She envisioned an organization that would encourage and support other teen parents in their pursuit of a college degree. Nicole's life -- and her daughter's life -- was truly transformed by graduating from college, and she wanted to help others realize their full potential and obtain stable and successful futures.

What do Generation Hope Scholars receive?

  • $1,200/year in scholarship money if you are attending a 2-year college, $2,400/year in scholarship money if you are attending a 4-year college
  • Mentoring--each Scholar is matched with a caring adult mentor who works with you one-on-one until you graduate, providing you with emotional support, guidance, and friendship
  • Support of Generation Hope staff, who can help you access resources, manage crises, etc.
  • Trainings in life skills, career readiness, etc.
  • Free tutoring as necessary
  • Access to an Emergency Fund for financial crises
  • Access to fun, family-friendly events such as field trips 
  • Access to mental health support for Scholars and their families

Who is eligible for Generation Hope?

  • You must be a teen parent (defined as pregnant/expecting by age 19) and 25 or younger at the time of application.
  • You must be raising or actively involved in your child's life (defined by regular support and care of your child).
  • You must be attending -or planning to attend- a nonprofit college starting the Fall semester in the Washington, D.C. Metro Area and seeking an associates or a bachelors degree.
    • Learn more about nonprofit colleges here to determine if you are eligible.
  • You must be a US Citizen, legal US Resident, or have Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status or any other immigration status that allows you in-state tuition and work eligibility.
  • You must submit a copy of your Student Aid Report (SAR) or proof of FAFSA submission, or DACA supplement.
  • You must be planning to take a minimum of 6 credits each semester. 

What are the requirements of Generation Hope Scholars?

  • Meet with your mentor in-person at least once a month, and communicate at least every other week
  • Attend an initial training in July and at least one In-Service Training each year
  • If you are a first year college student, you must attend Generation Hope's Summer Bridge course, which will take place virtually in July
  • Attend the graduation banquet and Pathways to Promise conference each June
  • Respond to communication from Generation Hope staff within 24 hours
  • Maintain a GPA of 2.5 or above and a minimum of 6 credits per semester
  • Submit midterm and final grades each semester


Are you looking to apply for the New Orleans Scholar Program? Click here.


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