Iowa College Access Network Granted 501 (c) (3)
Iowa College Access Network Granted 501(c)(3) Status
WEST DES MOINES, IOWA (August 20, 2010) — The Iowa College Access Network
®
(ICAN), an independent, educational organization, announced today it has been granted
501(c)(3) tax exempt status by the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The IRS has
classified ICAN as a public charity, which means that contributions to the organization are
tax exempt.
ICAN was founded on the belief that all Iowans have the right and the ability to attain higher
education, and that through education and community outreach, Iowa’s future can be
brighter. ICAN assists in the building of Iowa futures by providing a compilation of services
for middle school, high school and college students and their families at no charge.
The effects of the recession have been felt across the state, including Iowa’s school
districts. Increased enrollment combined with cuts in many high school guidance offices
make the services provided by ICAN even more essential for Iowa’s future.
ICAN will now be in position to continue providing vitally needed college planning services to
Iowa students and families while maintaining its strong commitment to customer service.
The 501(c)(3) status also allows ICAN access to additional sources of funding as its
programs continue to expand. “Receiving our 501(c)(3) status was critical for our development as it provides the possibility
for others to contribute to our work, empowering all Iowans to achieve their educational and
career goals,” said Juan Garcia, executive director of the Iowa College Access Network.
ICAN will be able to compete for external funding through federal and state grants, national
and local foundations, and businesses and industries. These funds, combined with current
contributions, will help ICAN expand its services and further assist other Iowa educational
organizations.
“ICAN is so grateful to the individuals, groups and businesses that invest in the future of
young people through a gift to ICAN,” said Carla Jesse, director of development for ICAN.
“We are delighted that current and future investors in the programs ICAN delivers will now
have the added benefit of knowing their gift is tax-deductable.”
ICAN provides information without charge on how to succeed in education through a variety
of means. Presentations with accompanying materials are offered in Iowa high schools to
help students and families plan for college, apply for financial aid, succeed in high school
and college, and manage financial decisions. In addition, monthly e-newsletters cover timely
topics for high school and college students, and www.ICANsucceed.org provides easy
access to more detailed topics. Many of ICAN’s services and materials are also available in
Spanish.
High school counselors, outreach programs, college professionals and others who work with
students also benefit through ICAN’s webinars, annual conference, e-newsletters and
training resources.