ASPIRE: Helping Single Parents Return to School and Build a Stronger Future

Balancing work, parenting, and college is no small feat, especially for single parents facing financial and emotional hurdles. That’s why Bryan Vowels, founding partner of TrueNorth, and his wife, Leticia, helped create the ASPIRE Scholarship Program. ASPIRE is dedicated to helping single parents overcome everyday obstacles so they can succeed in college, technical school, and in life.

We spoke with ASPIRE’s Executive Director, Todd Taylor, to learn how this program “unmasks potential” by offering scholarships, mentorship, and new career readiness initiatives that strengthen families. Take a look at this informative Q&A session and learn more about ASPIRE’s mission.

What can you tell us about this year’s theme, “Unmasking Potential?”

Todd: It’s really the heart of everything we do. We don’t just award scholarships—we help uncover the strength and capability that already exists within our students. We support them financially, yes, but also emotionally. We believe in them until they can fully believe in themselves. That belief is powerful, life-changing.

Can you tell us about your mission and what inspired its founding? What drives the mission behind ASPIRE?

Todd: At ASPIRE, I have the privilege of witnessing the extraordinary potential that exists in single parents who are determined to change the trajectory of their lives—and their children’s lives—through education. It’s incredibly inspiring to walk alongside people who are doing the hard work of balancing school, work, and parenting, often all at once. When I first joined ASPIRE, I heard a story from one of our founders, Bryan Vowels, that stuck with me. He said the idea began when he was talking to single parents who were juggling school, work, and childcare. He realized there was a major gap in support—not just financial, but emotional and logistical. 

ASPIRE was born from the simple but profound idea that these parents are some of the most driven, capable students out there. They just need someone in their corner. And ASPIRE is that “someone.” That’s what we strive to be: someone in their corner. Our support goes beyond tuition. We help with gas, childcare, utilities, laptops, and even eye exams. These are the everyday obstacles that can derail a student’s journey, and we want to make sure they don’t have to face them alone.

Can you share a story about a person or group that has been positively impacted by your work?

Todd: I think our students say it best:

“It’s hope where you thought there was none.” – Jordon 

“It’s people who refuse to give up on me when I thought I couldn’t do it.” – Katie 

“Without the Single Parent Scholar program, I would not be able to balance life, work, school and my children.  I would not be able to live to my full potential.”  – Sausha Miller

“‘It takes a village’ has come to life in the program. To be able to provide a more stable future for my son and me.  ASPIRE has opened the doors of possibility. I am now working for Crowder College.” – Tabbitha

Then there’s Cherie, one of our recent scholars. She told us, “As a single mom working hard to provide for my family while pursuing my education, this scholarship is more than financial support—it’s a lifeline.” 

That kind of impact goes beyond any check we could ever write. That’s why we do this work.

What new initiatives or projects are you most excited about?

Todd: We’re really excited to launch our new Career Readiness Initiative. It’s designed to connect our scholars with internships, mentors, and job opportunities—because earning a degree is just one step. We want to be there for the next one, too: building a stable, meaningful career.

What are the biggest challenges your organization faces?

Todd: The demand for support keeps growing, and we don’t want to turn away any qualified student. Our vision is big: we want to double our impact in Jasper and Newton Counties—and even expand beyond that. When people support ASPIRE, they’re not just helping a student—they’re empowering a parent, strengthening a family, and investing in a future full of possibility.

How do you measure success or impact in your programs?

Todd: We monitor the percentage of scholars who successfully complete their degree program along with some post-graduation metrics such as:

• Employment rates within six to twelve months.
• Job relevance to their field of study.
• Income levels compared to pre-program employment.

What else would you like to share about ASPIRE?

Todd: ASPIRE is about walking alongside single parents—helping them unmask their potential and believe in what’s possible. I’ve seen firsthand what happens when someone believes in them—and it changes everything.

If you know of a single parent determined to go back to school and need support to break down financial barriers, or you’re an individual, business, or organization who would like to sponsor a scholarship, please visit www.aspirescholarship.org to learn more.