Frequently Asked Questions

  • How can I enroll in your programs? 

    The first step is to contact us. Please email Minerva “Mimi” Coffie at mcoffie@collegeandcommunity.org. If you meet preliminary requirements, you will be scheduled for a College Readiness Consultation. Once you are college ready, you are on the Pathway to Fellowship!

  • Do you provide MetroCards for appointments?

    Yes. Students with financial needs can receive MetroCards for college readiness consultation, intake, referral follow up and college appointments.

  • Are intake appointments available on weekends?

    No. Intake appointments take place during 9-5 office hours only. Once admitted to the program there are late-night hours available during fall and spring semesters.

  • What if I don’t meet preliminary requirements during my consultation?

    During the consultation, our Recruitment Coordinator will outline the things that you need to do in order to be college-ready, and she may enroll you in our Community Sisters program to help you become college-ready. She will also give you any necessary referrals. When you become college-ready, you will complete intake into our Academic Support Program and start the college application process right away.

  • Can I refer a friend or relative to the CCF program?

    Yes, you can. Many of our fellows find our program through word of mouth. If you know a woman with criminal justice involvement who is interested in our programs, tell her to contact Minerva “Mimi” Coffie at mcoffie@collegeandcommunity.org to see if our program is a good fit for her.

  • I need to contact the CCF program staff. Who should I REACH OUT TO?

    You can contact Minerva “Mimi” Coffie at mcoffie@collegeandcommunity.org. She will be happy to direct you to the right staff member.

  • I want to become a mentor for CCF Fellows. Where do I start?

    Please email Whitney Vairin at WVairin@collegeandcommunity.org to put your name on the list of potential mentors. When we launch our program, we’ll contact you for an interview.

  • I’m not comfortable with my college counselor on my campus. Can CCF help me?

    Yes! CCF’s counselors understand the stigma of incarceration and how difficult it can be to have conversations with college counselors and professors. Many students ask us: Can I receive financial aid even though I have a felony? Can I pursue a degree that requires licensing? Would my conviction prevent me from getting the license? How and when do I disclose my criminal conviction? We are here to give you accurate information so that you can be well-informed to make the right decisions.

  • How can I get more support for taking care of my home and family?

    Every student has different needs in her pursuit of a college degree. We can assist you in getting connected to valuable community resources and provide additional support to overcome barriers you may encounter while pursuing higher education. This includes advocating for services and providing appropriate referrals to community partners. Please contact your academic counselor for more information.