The Alt Fair takes a digital turn with an all new website. Shayna Abraham, of Prepare To Bloom Treatment Consulting and Joanna Lilley, of Lilley Consulting have joined forces to create CollegeAlternative.org, a go-to website for young adults and their families considering non-traditional post-secondary options. 

The creation of this project came after 2020 required the long-standing Alternative to College Fair (“Alt Fair”) to pivot to a digital platform. After producing the hours of content needed the duo wanted families to have a go-to spot in order to find these videos and additional content allowing them to access more information about alternative post-secondary options.  With between 15-20% of incoming college students alone reconsidering their enrollment and looking to “gap year” options, Shayna and Joanna knew they had to get this information in front of families,  The Fall 2021 incoming cohort of college students are currently deciding whether college is the route for them right now. 

The Alt Fair was the brainchild of Shayna Abraham and Stacy Jenkins in 2015 as an in-person event allowing families to learn more about the wide variety of non-traditional post-secondary options. They showcased gap year programs, travel programs, trade schools, transitional living programs, military options, and avenues to enter the trades. The success of the event allowed it to grow from one fair in one location to two bay area fairs and then fairs in multiple states. It was at this point that Joanna and Shayna joined forces. 

When the pandemic hit and it became clear that an in-person event was no longer an option, the event sponsors were able to continue on by navigating to the digital platform. The new platform will allow added content and access for even more families from across the globe. The duo is excited about the expansion of this project!

Joanna stated that “I am excited for the expanded opportunities that this digital platform allows us. More and more families are reaching out for therapeutic or alternative options for college.  We want this website to be the one-stop-shop that families come to.” 

About CollegeAlternative.org

CollegeAlternative.org is the leading provider of therapeutic and alternative-to-college options for young adults.  Offering families worldwide diamond-in-the-rough opportunities, experiences, and adventures for their young adult to defer, mature, and find their own path.  For more information please feel free to call Joanna Lilley, MA, NCC, or Shayna Abraham, MA, CEP at hello@collegealternative.org.

CollegeAlternative.org is owned and operated by two Therapeutic Consultants, who have no affiliation with the programs other than to know they exist.  Explore CollegeAlternative.org now to chart your future!