About GEAR UP Week
Join thousands of students, parents, teachers, partners and college access professionals from across the nation to celebrate GEAR UP and the successes of your hard work and dedication.
National GEAR UP Week is an opportunity for you to raise awareness in your community about the positive impact GEAR UP is having locally. It's a time to engage all your stakeholders - local, state and federal elected officials; funders; partners; and media - to share your program's accomplishments and to get them more involved with your services to students and families. Let's commemorate your hard work and the progress our students are making towards achieving their life-long dream of going to college!
2024: Celebrating 25 Years of GEAR UP
Since 1999, GEAR UP has been instrumental in transforming the lives of students, families, and communities across the nation. By providing invaluable resources, mentorship, and support, GEAR UP plays a pivotal role in expanding opportunities for students from underserved backgrounds.
Here are three ways to help honor the 25 years of dedication, empowerment, and excellence in educational equity:
Communicate the impact of GEAR UP
Meet with your members of Congress to ensure they know how GEAR UP is making a difference in your community.
Meeting Request Template (PDF) - coming soon
Meeting Agenda (PDF)
GEAR UP Fact Sheet (PDF) - coming soon
Share your throwbacks to highlight successes
Show the growth and accomplishments of your program by sharing photos and data from your GEAR UP program, staff, or your community “then” and “now” on social media.
Social Media Templates - coming soon
Envision the future
Ask students to imagine their lives in 25 years, including their educational and career accomplishments.
In 25 Years… Worksheet (PDF)
Need More Inspiration?
Our National GEAR UP Week Toolkit will help you:
Advocate: Engage with local and national leaders to gain GEAR UP champions and support.
Activate: Spread the word throughout your community that #GEARUPworks!
Celebrate: Focus on student aspirations and how GEAR UP catalyzes success.
