Changing
Lives.
Transforming
Communities.
Imagine if every student in Rockford had the tools—financial support, academic guidance, and personal encouragement—to not only attend college, but to graduate with confidence and launch a career. That’s exactly what Rockford Promise makes possible.
The challenge
We know the power of education. A college degree can be life-changing.
Those who earn a degree make, on average, 75% more than those with only a high school diploma.
But for many students, the path to college is filled with obstacles.
- College costs have skyrocketed, increasing nearly 1,400% since 1978.
- In Illinois, 61% of college graduates leave school in debt.
- And for low-income, first-generation students who do reach college, 9 out of 10 leave without a degree.
The Rockford Promise Solution
Rockford Promise goes beyond scholarships.
We cover the gap between financial aid and the full cost of tuition—but we don’t stop there. Our Scholars receive comprehensive support: mentorship, academic advising, and a strong network that empowers them to navigate college life and stay on track through graduation.
And we’re not just sending students to college—we’re bringing their success back home.
Real Results.
Real Community Impact.
We’re seeing powerful outcomes—and the impact is being felt across the community.
- Scholars from every corner of Rockford are succeeding. Our program includes students from all 14 city zip codes.
- Achievement is on the rise. Since 2019, RPS 205 graduation rates are up 5%, and 6% more students are earning the 3.0 GPA needed to become Rockford Promise Scholars.
- First-generation students are thriving. 62% of our Scholars are the first in their families to attend college, and they’re earning degrees at twice the national rate.
- Our Scholars maintain a strong average GPA of 3.2 across our partner colleges.
- Big returns. Every $1 invested in Rockford Promise generates $131.81 in local economic impact.
- We’re building Rockford’s future workforce. Our Scholars are preparing for careers in healthcare, education, engineering, and business—fields aligned with RPS 205’s academy pathways and the needs of local employers.
- We’re leading the way. Rockford is one of only six cities in the country offering a community-wide college promise.
Be Part of the Promise
Rockford Promise is transforming lives —strengthening families, neighborhoods, and our local economy.
Join us in shaping a stronger Rockford. Learn more. Spread the word. Give. Get Involved. Be a part of the Promise.
Follow the Movement
See the impact in action. Follow us on Facebook.
Articles like this remind us why our mission matters. While rankings offer a snapshot of where things stand today, they don’t define where Rockford is headed next.
Rockford has incredible potential—but too many talented students still face barriers to earning a college degree or professional credential. Rockford Promise exists to change that. By covering the gap in tuition costs, we’re investing in our community’s future, building a stronger local workforce, and helping Rockford rise on lists like these for years to come.
Whether it’s a welding certificate from Rock Valley College, a nursing degree from Saint Anthony College of Nursing, or a teaching degree from Rockford University, we’re committed to creating life-changing opportunities for local students.
Education fuels growth—not only for individuals, but for entire communities. Let’s keep working together to build brighter futures for Rockford’s students.
If you’re passionate about transforming lives and strengthening our city, join us in supporting education and opportunity right here in Rockford. … See MoreSee Less
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When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it’s been deleted.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
A huge THANK YOU to everyone who joined us at FORE the Promise! ⛳️
Because of your incredible support, we raised over $20,000 — funds that will go directly toward transforming the lives of Rockford Promise scholars.
Events like FORE the Promise help Rockford Promise raise additional resources to open doors to higher education, brighter futures, and endless possibilities for students in our community.
We’re so grateful for every golfer, sponsor, volunteer, and friend who made this event such a success. Together, we’re changing lives and building a stronger Rockford!
#FOREthePromise #RockfordPromise #ChangingLives #ThankYou … See MoreSee Less
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What an incredible day at FORE the Promise – thank you to everyone who joined us on the course to support Rockford Promise! Huge thank you to all of our generous sponsors and golfers who made this event possible. Your support truly DRIVES the promise forward.
Stay tuned—more photos coming soon! … See MoreSee Less
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WHO’s READY FOR IRONMAN?!! Rockford Promise Scholars are here and ready to volunteer! We have 100 Scholars and staff ready to welcome visitors and support our community. So honored and excited to be part of the fun! IRONMANGo Rockford … See MoreSee Less
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