How We Started
ProjectAttain! began in 2018 as a bold idea that mobilized area leaders to shed light on an often-overlooked population – working-age adults with some college, but no degree. Through collective action with a focus on equity, ProjectAttain! quickly expanded to address attainment for all working-age adults returning to complete a formal educational credential at the diploma, certificate, or degree level.
With support from leaders and community members, ProjectAttain! grew to be a dynamic initiative bringing together organizations, talent, and seed funding and serving as a catalyst for social mobility and economic growth.
In 2020, ProjectAttain! became a 501c3 nonprofit organization with an impressive board, vital anchor institutional partnerships, and a clear mission.
Our “why” at ProjectAttain! is to help “comebackers” finish what they started. Educational attainment eliminates shame, changes career trajectories, improves the quality of life for individuals, and helps hundreds of local businesses unlock the talent they need to compete in the 21st century.
We intentionally serve individuals and communities across our region that for too long have not had the access or the support they need to complete their education. The leadership team behind ProjectAttain! continually works to deepen the commitment and actions needed for true equity and inclusion.
OUR MISSION
Increase educational attainment of working-age adults in the Capital Region to
60% by 2030
How We Work
As an Initiative
ProjectAttain! highlights the educational attainment needs of, and serves as a voice for, adult learners ages 25-64. We showcase adult-friendly partners and programs and feature data-driven content that improves access, equity, and support for adult learners in the Capital Region.
As a Service Provider
ProjectAttain! is the entry point for working-age adults seeking to complete their education. Through one-on-one navigation services, we help future graduates reimagine their goals, reinvest in their future, and return to school.
We partner with business and organizations to evaluate their existing training and education plans, assess internal talent and potential, identify education gaps, and build attainment pathways for future success.
We collaborate with regional higher education institutions to identify adult-friendly programs and processes, build collaborative coaching and advising teams, and create seamless transitions for students returning to complete their diploma, certificate, or degree.
As a Curator
ProjectAttain! curates the research, best practices, and expertise of others who work in this space and puts it into practice to transform the Capital Region by increasing educational attainment and decreasing equity, achievement, and skills gaps for working-age adults.
Framework For Change
Equity at the core
Institutional readiness and change
Comfort with ambiguity
Connected programs and strategies
Sustainable and diverse funding
Models and practices aligned with regional ecosystems
Sacramento Snapshot
ProjectAttain! serves six counties in the Capital Region
El Dorado • Placer • Sacramento • Sutter • Yolo • Yuba