The College Parent Survival Network sponsored the ‘Alternative to College Fair,’ commonly known as the Alt Fair, on March 19, 2022 in Walnut Creek, CA.  In attendance at the Alt Fair were parents, high school seniors, and young adults who were trying to figure out a plan, whether they left post-secondary institutions or never went.  This event hosted 38 local and national programs and opportunities. As she was leaving, one young woman shared, “I’m so glad I came to this!  I have several news ideas for what I want to do and where I want to go.  Thank you for hosting this event!” 

Alternative-to-college options are becoming necessary for a variety of young adults.  For the 150+ families who attended the fair, the programs ranged from residential college entry programs, young adult transitional programs, therapeutic gap year programs, trade programs, summer-based college preparation programs, creative accelerator programs, non-residential young adult support services, and more.  The programs in attendance are only a fraction of what’s available out there for young adults who are looking to get creative after they graduate high school.  Jake Weld, representing Mansfield Hall, shared “Participating in the 2022 Alt Fair was a great opportunity to connect directly with students, families, referring professionals, and other excellent post-secondary options.  Being a part of a curated set of options – and participants – meant that every conversation was productive and each interaction was meaningful.” 

Any family or young adult who was unaware of this event or unable to attend, can learn about the participating programs by exploring the CollegeAlternative.org (https://www.collegealternative.org/) website or email hello@collegealternative.org to ask for guidance. 

About College Parent Survival Network: 

College Parent Survival Network (https://www.allkindsoftherapy.com/therapeutic-expert/the-college-parent-collective) is the safest online community for parents seeking support, direction, and guidance around helping their child launch into adulthood, whether that includes college or not.  Offering parents a platform to ask questions, normalize they aren’t alone, and learn from experts around college and early adulthood.  For more information, please check out the community. College Parent Survival Network is owned and operated by two Therapeutic Consultants and one College Consultant.  This collaboration was formed in an effort to help parents early, and potentially save the young adult from pain in the future.