Pikes Peak State College on July 25 announced a new Promise program focused on Native American students in the Pikes Peak region. First Nations Promise is a last-dollar grant that will cover direct costs and offer academic coaching for Native students who attend the Colorado college.

The First Nations Promise Program is designed for members of federally recognized American Indian tribes residing in El Paso, Teller, or Elbert counties. The funding can be applied to direct costs like tuition and student fees. Academic coaches will work closely with First Nations Promise scholars to offer resources that support students in their time at PPSC.

“We recognized Pikes Peak State College is uniquely suited to support our Native American community,” Pikes Peak State President Lance Bolton said. “By adapting and modifying our existing Promise Programs – proven tools in increasing college-going rates – we have created the PPSC First Nations Promise. It will remove barriers, provide greater educational access, and ultimately create positive impacts for the Native American communities in the Pikes Peak Region.”

According to the U.S. Census Bureau in 2022, nearly 30% of the Native Americans living in El Paso County live below the poverty line. PPSC’s vision is to offer affordable excellence in higher education. This program ensures Native Americans in Colorado Springs are actively invited to pursue and complete their academic and career interests.

“This promise represents our commitment to honoring the rich cultural heritage of First Nations students and their belonging in this community,” says Vice President of Student Services, Roberto Garcia.

Funding for this grant comes from two foundations committed to equipping the people of Colorado with the tools they need for self-sufficiency. The Dakota Foundation is committed to gifting $50,000 per year for the next five years toward First Nations Promise. This generous contribution is coupled with a $250,000 commitment from the Daniels Fund, bringing the total funding to half a million dollars.

This article originally appeared here.