In partnership with UNITE-LA’s Cash for College campaign and the L.A. Region K-16 Collaborative, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (CPP) hosted Jumpstart Your College Journey: Your Guide to Financial Aid and Student Success on Saturday, Dec. 13, on the CPP campus. A total of 137 students and family members attended the event, including 46 prospective high school and community college students and 35 current CPP students. Participants received guidance on short- and long-term financial planning from CPP staff and SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, personalized support completing financial aid applications, a campus dining experience and opportunities to connect with CPP’s Student Success Division to learn about academic, personal and student support resources.

Families shared positive feedback, and two $1,000 scholarships were awarded to rising college freshmen, along with three $50 gift cards to attendees. Building on this momentum, four additional college-bridging and financial aid events with community college partners are planned for 2026.