A strong and vibrant community in which to live, work and play is something we all value: a safe place with great jobs, healthy residents, quality community services and a robust economy.

We also know that an essential ingredient for creating that type of community is the development of an educated workforce that attracts strong employers.

Although we have some terrific colleges and universities in our backyard, this region still struggles with low overall educational attainment rates. For the San Bernardino-Riverside area, just 35 percent of high school graduates enroll in college, compared with 61 percent nationally.

To help prepare more local youth for future selfsufficiency and a sustainable career path, Inland Empire United Way has just recruited 13 talented AmeriCorps members who have committed to giving a year of their lives in service to our community. Of this group, eight members are now placed in Fontana Unified School District (FUSD) within each of their high schools and adult school.

In partnership with FUSD’s Department of College & Career Readiness, the group will work to build a strong college-going culture including a one-on-one mentoring component and activities introducing key concepts as early as elementary school.

“The program is entitled Project A.C.E. (Accessing College and Career), and our vision is to create a wellnetworked Fontana com munity where every student and school is supported in making college a reality,” said AmeriCorps member Darion Wallace.

The goal is to inspire and prepare underprivileged youth for graduation and career readiness. Students will learn about the benefits of higher education, choosing a career path, college requirements, selecting the right college or career education program and applying for financial aid.

As a result, we look forward not only to higher educational attainment in this region, but a strengthened community for all. Clearly, education is a key indicator for future physical and mental health, public safety and family financial stability.

Each of us can play an important role encouraging youth to help build a brighter future. Check out current volunteer opportunities at www.HandsOnInlandEmpire.org.