Alliance for Excellence, a 501(c) 3 non-profit outreach, works with four community colleges and local African American churches in central Virginia. Combining leadership and influence from the African American church with educational resources from community colleges, Alliance expands educational opportunities for young people in the African American community. We seek to instill, in the minds and hearts of young people, that anything is possible by providing the skills, academic background, and confidence needed to achieve one's highest potential. A strong academic background and confidence are essential for employment in today's changing economy. Alliance for Excellence goes one step beyond traditional support services by following and supporting youth and their families through the difficult challenges of adolescence and young adulthood, particularly the obstacles most apparent for ages 7-27.

Involvement comes from churches, pastors and lay leaders, as well as conventional community support programs. Churches provide a compelling motivational foundation for the program, and college counselors, faculty, and special service staff provide educational assistance and guidance. These groups work together to encourage African American enrollment, retention, and graduation at participating colleges and enhanced opportunities for employment or continued higher education beyond the associate's degree.

Participating Colleges:

• Virginia Western Community College, Roanoke
• Danville Community College, Danville
• Patrick Henry Community College, Martinsville
• Central Virginia Community College, Lynchburg