Did you know that more than 29 million Americans don’t have a high school diploma. Why? Well, each person’s story is different: there are the young mothers and fathers who opted to support their family over school, kids who were forced to choose putting food on the table for their family over school, and even kids who battled illness and simply couldn’t earn enough credits to graduate.
But here’s something that many people who haven’t earned their diploma may not realize: It never too late, you’re never too old, and you do NOT have to do it alone!
Hundreds of men and women have successfully earned their diploma or equivalent, and we need to celebrate their hard work and dedication, while also inspiring and encouraging anyone who wants to do the same!
Without a high school diploma, opportunities in today’s economy can be limited. In fact, nearly 30% of adults with household incomes at or below the federal poverty line don’t have a high school credential. The AdCouncil and FinishYourDiploma.org have launched a new campaign to celebrate the adults who have finished their diploma and to inspire those who feel like they’ve been alone or who didn’t know where to turn to find resources and tools for free adult education in their community.
Since the campaign launched in 2010, Finish Your Diploma has helped more than 800,000 adults in all 50 states find free test-prep classes in their area. It’s so important that we get the word out about the network of thousands of free adult education classes available throughout the country.
In most communities, local nonprofits and literacy centers are able to offer free classes to help adults prepare for the GED, TASC, or HiSET high school equivalency tests. If we can get people in the door, these centers will provide support and guidance on the path towards higher education. For many adults, earning a high school equivalency diploma is the first step toward a college degree, a better job, or a brighter future.
How Else Can You Help In Your Local Community?
Join the #HatsOffToYou Social Media Campaign. One thing that unites graduates in the U.S. is tossing a cap in the air to celebrate their tremendous achievement. The AdCouncil and FinishYourDiploma.org are asking people to toss a hat in support of adult graduates and to inspire others to get their diploma. Simply film a short video or Instagram Boomerang, or take a picture of yourself tossing any hat you have available. Use the hashtag #HatsOffToYou and tag @FinishYourDiploma on Instagram. Example: I’m tossing my hat in honor of the thousands of adults who will receive their diplomas this year, #HatsOffToYou @FinishYourDiploma
