When we plan college and career fairs, it’s easy to focus on students and forget that parents walk in with just as many questions, and often leave without the answers they need. That’s exactly what Houston Parent Action Network set out to change.
On March 21, Houston Parent Action Network hosted its first-ever College and Career Day at the Youth Development Center in Houston’s District 2. The event was intentionally designed for the entire family, giving parents and students alike the space to learn about paying for college, explore high-earning career pathways beyond a traditional four-year degree, and connect with free and low-cost programs available right now to help keep students on track.
Speakers from Mayra V Strategy, Just Mindful Ed, and Texas Technical Trade School delivered practical, actionable guidance on financial aid and career readiness. Many sessions and resource was offered in English and/or Spanish, a deliberate choice rooted in meeting District 2’s community members where they are.
The event also featured a partner hall with organizations offering real resources for families: SERJobs, Houston METRO, Houston City College, Houston City College Northeast, Centerpoint Energy, Bracewell LLP, and Texas Technical Trade School. Special thanks to the Youth Development Center for hosting and to every partner, presenter, and community member who made the day possible.
At the center of it all was Greg Norwood, GRH’s Director of Grassroots Engagement, whose work is built around a simple conviction: information is equalizing, and getting it to the people who need it most is the whole point. College and Career Day was that conviction made real.
This is Year 1. PAN’s College and Career Day will return and we can’t wait to see what’s next.
See more photos from the event here.
Stay connected with Parent Action Network and Good Reason Houston for updates on future events.
