Too many first-generation, low-income students and students of color are left without the support they need to access and complete college. CARA trains youth leaders, builds school and college capacity, and conducts research to drive policy change.

Partner & Student Reach

85%of high school students served either come from low-income households or identify as Black/Hispanic
70+High school and CBO partners supported in NYC annually
64%of college students served are Pell Recipients
200+High school and college students trained as peer leaders annually

Whole School + Peer-to-Peer Programming

Impact on Postsecondary Enrollment

Postsecondary enrollment grew 5.2 percentage points over 5 years of programming, to an average rate 8.1 percentage points higher than comparison schools with similar economic need.


High schools with two or more years of Whole School programming embed at least 40 additional hours of college and career exploration into the 9-12 curriculum.

Peer-to-Peer Programming

Impact on Postsecondary Enrollment

Postsecondary enrollment grew 13.4 percentage points over 5 years of programming, to an average rate 5.7 percentage points higher than comparison schools with similar economic need.


Nationally, the average counselor-to-student ratio is 1:376 – leaving many students without the guidance they need. CARA’s Peer-to-Peer programs lower the counselor-to-student ratio by 26%, on average.

Impact on College Students Served by Peer Leaders

College persistence is 11 percentage points higher among CUNY students supported by College Allies Peer Leaders, compared to academically and demographically similar peers.

Peer Leaders offer relationship-based guidance and support on financial aid, course registration, and navigating identity and belonging — building the trust, connection, and confidence students need to stay enrolled and succeed.

Impact on Peer Leaders

College persistence is 11 percentage points higher among CARA-trained Peer Leaders compared to academically and demographically similar peers.

Through their training and hands-on peer support experience, CARA Peer Leaders develop core competencies including active listening, problem-solving, and effective communication. They also gain access to career development resources, build professional networks, and serve as leaders on their campuses.

Youth Development

1500+ high school & college students trained since 2011

Since 2011, 1,500+ high school & college students have been trained by CARA — helping them grow as leaders, and helping them prepare for college, career & life.

Read Their Inspiring Stories

Policy Research

Annual publications that have reached thousands of educators, practitioners, and funders across the country

CARA helps advance the field by publishing research, developing best practices, and amplifying student voice — contributing to national conversations on postsecondary access and success.

Explore Publications