HOPE & PaS
Higher Opportunity for Pathways to Employment (HOPE) and Parents as Scholars (PaS) are two statewide workforce development programs offered by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). These programs help parents and specified relatives pursue training and education beyond high school to achieve their career plans. A core component of both programs is Pathway Navigator services provided by JMG.
The Maine Resource Center is made possible by the Higher Opportunity for Pathways to Employment (HOPE) and Parents as Scholars (PaS) partnership with JMG. The HOPE and PaS programs help Maine families pursue training and education beyond high school and achieve their career plans by addressing barriers to success. The Maine Resource Center is made available to all students to ensure you have the resources you need to be successful.
Higher Opportunity for Pathways to Employment
The Higher Opportunity for Pathways to Employment (HOPE) Program is committed to helping parents and specified relatives reach their educational and career goals by helping cover costs related to school.
Do I Qualify?
Are a parent or specified relative of a minor child.
Meet the financial qualifications. Have been accepted to or are enrolled at least half-time in a qualifying training or education program beyond high school.
If you are enrolled less than half-time, HOPE Program needs to approve this.
Are not currently receiving, or someone in your family unit is not currently receiving, a monthly TANF or PaS cash benefit.
Are a U.S. citizen or eligible non-U.S. citizen. Many non-citizens are eligible.
Are a Maine resident between the ages of 16 through 64.
Do not already have a marketable bachelor's degree in Maine.
Are making satisfactory progress in your training or education program (based on your school's standards) and you are on track to graduate.
You might be eligible for the HOPE Program if you:
How HOPE may help
HOPE may assist qualifying parents with costs related to training and education including:
Tuition and fees
Prior tuition and fees preventing you from reenrolling in school
Books, supplies, tools, and equipment
Child care
Transportation
Auto repairs, registration, insurance, and inspection
Computer or other technology
Dental care (if needed to help you stay in school
Other costs related to school
Parents as Scholars (PaS)
Parents as Scholars (PaS) is a monthly benefit through Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) that helps parents and specified relatives working through a two- or four-year degree-granting program.
Do I Qualify?
You might be eligible for the PaS Program if you:
Are eligible for a TANF cash benefit
Are a Maine resident 16 and older
Are a parent or specified relative of a minor child who is living with you
Are a U.S. Citizen or non-citizen
Are attending or accepted into a 2- or 4-year education program beyond high school and are making satisfactory progress
Lack a bachelor's degree marketable in Maine
How PaS Can Help
PaS may assist qualifying parents with costs related to training and education including:
Tuition and fees
Books, supplies, tools, and equipment
Child care
Transportation
Auto repairs, registration, insurance, and inspection
Dental care (if needed to help you stay in school
Other costs related to school
JMG Pathway Navigator Support
The HOPE and PaS programs both include student Pathway Navigator services provided by JMG.
Our Pathway Navigators offer support in many ways:
Offering support while you are on your educational journey
Connecting you with HOPE or PaS for funding support
Assisting with your application for financial aid and completion of forms
Helping you understand your student bills and fees
Referring you to school and community resources for assistance
Referring you to additional scholarships and funding sources
Guiding your selection and registration for classes
Helping you transfer to other higher education institutions
Checking-in on a monthly basis to see how you’re doing
Answering any questions and addressing your concerns
Troubleshooting when you have concerns related to school, career, family, or resources
Talking with you about your classes, your progress, and plans for your next semester
Contacting your school to ensure you are on track with your studies
Helping you develop a Pathway Plan that outlines steps for successful completion of your training or education program
Interested in learning more about our support for HOPE and PaS?
In addition to our Pathway Navigator support, we have resources that may be helpful.
Meet the JMG HOPE & PaS Team
Kara Boone
HOPE/PaS Program Director
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BA, Rehabilitation Services, University of Maine Farmington
JMG Since 2005
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JMG allows me to work with kids in a way that truly makes a difference each day. I've been given the opportunity to now work with foster care youth; a very unique group of young people who work so hard to overcome personal struggles. It's a privilege to be a part of that work and be a support to them in the work they're doing for themselves.
Shannon Micklus
HOPE/PaS Program Coordinator
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BA English and MS Education
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JMG is an organization helping people of all ages reach their full potential and find success in life.
Jasmine Bassett
Pathway Navigator
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UMaine at Machias, Washington County Community College
Additional: Downeast School of Massage
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Hancock, Knox, Lincoln, Waldo, Washington
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Crystal Leavitt
Pathway Navigator
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Kennebec Valley Community College, UMaine at Farmington
Additional: Aveda Institute Maine
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Franklin, Kennebec, Somerset
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Masters degree
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Great organization!
Lauren Lobikis
Pathway Navigator
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Central Maine Community College
Additional: Maine College of Health Professions, Academy of Medical Professions
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Androscoggin, Oxford, Sagadahoc
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Bachelor of Science in Mental Health and Human Services
ACRE Certified Employment Specialist
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I am passionate about encouraging students to reach their full potential and receive support that will assist them in gaining the confidence, abilities, and resources needed to achieve their individual goals.
Roux Lobozzo
Pathway Navigator
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Southern Maine Community College, USM, York County Community College
Additional: Spa Tech Institute
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Cumberland and York
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B.A. Communication
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I chose JMG because they are passionate about serving people
Courtney Pollock
Pathway Navigator
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UMaine at Orono, Eastern Maine Community College
Additional: Beal University, Husson University, Empire Beauty Schools
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Penobscot
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BS in Health Management, Northeastern University MPH, California State University, Northridge
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I participated in the program as a senior in high school. The program gave me the tools to achieve my goals. Now I have the opportunity to help students do the same!
Bobbi-Jo Seamans
Pathway Navigator
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UMaine at Augusta
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Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Thomas College
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JMG allows me to support and work with students, building knowledge and skills to ensure success in the future.
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Statewide
Carissa Taggett
Pathway Navigator
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UMaine at Fort Kent, UMaine at Presque Isle, Northern Maine Community College
Additional: RSU 29 Adult Education
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Bachelor’s Degree in Behavioral Science
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Because I have a passion for building brighter futures for Maine students.
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Aroostook, Piscataquis