On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long welcomed Sarah Partington and Lyndsey Kelly to discuss how the program works, who qualifies, and why it has become one of the college’s fastest-growing opportunities for local students.
The IMPACT Program allows students attending high schools within Sauk Valley Community College’s district to earn tuition by completing 25 hours of volunteer service each year throughout high school. Students continue volunteering while attending SVCC, creating a partnership that benefits both the students and the organizations they serve.
The program is designed to make higher education more accessible while also encouraging civic engagement. Beyond reducing college costs, volunteering often exposes students to new career paths, helps them develop professional skills, and allows them to build meaningful relationships throughout the community. At the same time, nonprofit organizations, schools, churches, and community groups gain much-needed volunteer support.
Eligibility is straightforward. Students living within the college district, including homeschooled students, should register by September 1st of their freshman year to qualify for the full tuition benefit. Students who enroll later are still eligible through a tiered tuition model, with benefits available beginning in their sophomore, junior, or senior years.
Unlike many scholarship programs, the IMPACT Program does not require students to maintain a specific GPA while in high school. Once enrolled at Sauk Valley Community College, students must remain in good academic standing. During their senior year of high school, participants are also required to complete the FAFSA and apply for at least one scholarship.
The earned tuition covers tuition and mandatory fees. Students remain responsible for purchasing books, although those who qualify as Sauk Scholars may also receive assistance with textbook costs.
Interest in the program continues to grow. Nearly 500 members of the Class of 2030 had already enrolled before the Sept. 1 registration deadline, contributing to more than 2,000 students currently participating across multiple graduating classes. The program is now entering its fifth year after beginning with a pilot group before expanding districtwide.
College officials also emphasized that participation does not obligate students to attend Sauk Valley Community College. Even if a student ultimately chooses another college or enters the workforce directly, they still leave high school with significant volunteer experience that can strengthen college applications, resumes, and future career opportunities.
The IMPACT Program applies to every academic pathway offered by the college, including transfer degrees, career and technical education programs, certificates, and stackable credential options. Students do not need to decide on a specific career path when they enroll in the program.
To help students complete their volunteer hours, Sauk Valley Community College maintains an online calendar of volunteer opportunities that can be filtered by community. Students may also find their own qualifying volunteer experiences through nonprofit organizations, churches, schools, and community events.
Families interested in learning more or registering for the IMPACT Program are encouraged to complete the online application before the Sept. 1 freshman deadline. For many local students, the program offers an opportunity to reduce college costs, gain valuable real-world experience, and make a lasting impact in their communities long before graduation.
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