September/October 2002 Online Publication    





Unlock the FutureTM is an easy-to-use video presentation that offers complete information about the value of education following high school, the range of education options available, and the wide availability of financial aid.		 'Unlock the Future' focuses on early awareness
Submitted by: Chris Elam and Sandy Holt, USA Funds Services
 866-497-USAF (866-497-8723), option 2

A new informative and motivational program developed by USA Funds® aims to unlock brighter futures for middle-school students.

Unlock the FutureTM is an easy-to-use video presentation that offers complete information about the value of education following high school, the range of education options available, and the wide availability of financial aid. USA Funds® will make the program available for schools and community organizations to deliver to students in grades six through nine, as well as their families.

Unlock the FutureTM offers two presentations:
  • Student Track - Challenges students to dream by teaching them about career and education options and encouraging them to plan for their future. The presentation includes a 20-minute video hosted by middle-school students and featuring real people and their stories. Segments focus on 21st-century career options, planning ahead, course selection and the value of higher education.
  • Family Track - Complements the student presentation by helping family members play an active role in their children's future. The program includes a 30-minute "Oprah-style" talk-show video with segments covering the value of higher education for their children, 21st-century career options and financial-aid availability.
A "how-to" guide for facilitators accompanies materials for each presentation, along with take-home materials and gifts for participants.

USA Funds® will introduce Unlock the FutureTM as a pilot program with schools and community organizations in the fall. The free program will be offered nationwide in 2003.

For more information about Unlock the FutureTM, contact Renee Minor, managing director, Debt Management, toll-free at 866-497-USAF (8723), ext. 8006, or reneeyl.minor@usafunds.org. You also can contact your USA Funds® debt-management consultant, Mae Dunn-St. Julien, toll-free at 866-497-USAF (8723), ext. 7880, or estjulie@usafunds.org.