Welcome to The College Crusade of Rhode Island

Now celebrating our 20th year!

The College Crusade of Rhode Island is an innovative nonprofit organization founded in 1989 to reduce high school dropout rates and increase educational and career success for low-income urban youth. Each year we serve approximately 3,500 Crusaders from Rhode Island’s most disadvantaged communities – Providence, Pawtucket, Central Falls, and Woonsocket. We combine the steady, nurturing presence of caring adults with a rich array of programs that focus on academic enrichment, social and personal development, career awareness and exploration, and preparation for postsecondary education. Students who are members of The College Crusade go on to college at much higher rates than other students in the state’s urban school districts. Since 2001, we have awarded over $22 million in college scholarships to more than 2,800 high school graduates.

The College Crusade is funded by a federal grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s GEAR UP program, by the State of Rhode Island, and by private corporations, foundations, and individuals.

Special Update:
We are accepting membership applications from 6th graders this fall!
Click here to apply.