By working across Kalamazoo County’s nine school districts, KACAN will help to shift the college-access discussion to a more comprehensive effort made throughout Kalamazoo County and position it to be more economically competitive in the decades ahead. Each of the county’s nine schools districts and Kalamazoo RESA, as well numerous community agencies have shared the necessary funding for KACAN to begin. The local agencies that have contributed thus far are the City of Kalamazoo, Greater Kalamazoo United Way, Kalamazoo Community Foundation, Kresge, Upjohn Institute, and Western Michigan University.

Kalamazoo Area CAN’s mission is to dramatically increase college awareness and access among students in Kalamazoo County, with an emphasis on low-income and first generation college-goers. KACAN will coordinate and support county-wide college awareness and career preparation activities to facilitate an engaged community that supports college access for all students.