CHANGING LIVES. TRANSFORMING OUR REGION.

Be Part of the
Promise.

Help Shape
Rockford’s
Future.

Rockford Promise is more than a scholarship – it’s a movement – and when you give your time, your voice, or your resources, you are opening doors to brighter futures. 

Become a Corporate Sponsor.

Fuel Opportunity. Power Community.

When your company supports Rockford Promise, you’re giving deserving students the chance to succeed – and you’re investing in the future of our city’s workforce, economy, and leadership. 

“As a corporate sponsor of Rockford Promise, we see it as one of the smartest investments we can make—supporting local students today builds the skilled, motivated workforce our company and community will rely on tomorrow.”

XYZ CEO

WHY ROCKFORD PROMISE IS GOOD FOR YOUR BUSINESS

  • Fuel Local Talent 

    Your sponsorship directly funds full-tuition scholarships for RPS 205 graduates—empowering the next generation of Rockford professionals, innovators, and leaders. 
  • Grow a Stronger Workforce
    Rockford Promise Scholars are more likely to live and work here – giving your company access to skilled and motivated talent. 
  • Elevate Your Brand 

    Aligning your company with a high-impact, community initiative like Rockford Promise demonstrates your commitment to strengthening our region’s economy by expanding access to higher education.  

Sponsorship Opportunities: 

  • Annual sponsorships 
  • Event sponsorships such as FORE the Promise and Promising Futures 
  • Workplace giving or matching programs 
  • In-kind donations 
  • Promise Career Connections including mentorships, job shadows, site visits 

Become a Mentor.

Share Your Time. Change a Life.  

Rockford Promise provides more than just scholarships—we offer support that helps Scholars succeed in college and beyond. Mentors play a vital role in that journey, offering guidance, encouragement, and professional insight to help students thrive. 

“Being a Rockford Promise mentor has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. Watching my Scholar grow in confidence, navigate college, and plan for their future reminds me why community support matters so much.“

ABC Mentor

Why Mentorship Matters 

  • Support First-Gen College Students
    Many Scholars are the first in their families to attend college – your guidance helps them navigate new territory and stay on track to graduation.  
  • Build Meaningful Connections
    Mentors are matched with Scholars based on shared interests and career paths, forming relationships that often last well beyond college – and help shape future careers. 
  • Give Back in a Personal Way
    Mentorship is a direct and rewarding way to support a Scholar’s growth and impact the talent pipeline here in Rockford.  

What We Ask of Our Mentors 

  • Attend one-time mentor training and occasional check-ins 
  • Be an advocate for your Scholar and the Rockford Promise mission 
  • Maintain regular contact—at least two touchpoints per month during the school year and one during summer 
  • Help Scholars build professional networks and explore career paths 
  • Host a one-time in-person informational interview 
  • Complete brief reports and communications to support program tracking 

support the Promise.

Every gift helps a student succeed – and strengthens the future of Rockford

Make a Donation

Whether it’s a one-time contribution or a recurring monthly gift, your support opens doors to higher education for local students. Every donation makes a difference and is tax-deductible. (EIN: 26-0388141)

Sponsor an Event

Align your organization with a mission that matters. Sponsoring a Rockford Promise event boosts your brand visibility and shows your commitment to education and local talent.

Sponsor a Scholar

Make a direct, life-changing impact by funding a “Named Scholar.” Your gift covers full tuition and opens the doors to a brighter future.

  • $10,000 supports a Rock Valley College Scholar 
  • $20,000 supports a Rockford University Scholar 

Leave a Legacy

Ensure your commitment to education lives on. Naming Rockford Promise in your estate plans helps future generations of Rockford students achieve their college dreams. 

Advocate for the Promise.

Use Your Voice to Grow the Movement.

You don’t need a lot of time or resources to make a difference. By helping spread the word, you expand the reach and impact of Rockford Promise. 

Easy Ways to Advocate: 

  • Invite Rockford Promise to speak at your business, church, or club. 
  • Host a mini fundraising or info session. 
  • Share Scholar success stories and news on social media. 

Ready to Make a
Difference?

Let’s talk! Call or email us to talk about how you can help power Rockford Promise.