In our inaugural Stride for Hope 5K & Homecoming Festival, we’re running in support of adult learners who are working to change their lives and transform themselves and their communities by offering education and career training that creates direct pathways to economic mobility.
Advancing your education remains one of the most powerful tools for unlocking opportunity. Many adults returning to school bring years of professional and life experience—but lack a high school credential required for post-secondary education and higher-wage employment. At Academy of Hope (AoH), we offer FREE high school diploma pathways—GED and the National External Diploma Program (NEDP)— to adults across the District of Columbia.
NEDP is available to adults over the age of 22. Learners must demonstrate their high school-level skills and abilities by completing a series of computer-based performance tasks that parallel job and life situations. This program is a great option for those who learn better outside of a classroom setting or have a tight schedule, as NEDP learners can complete the program on their own time by studying independently and working with an assessor. Learners can attempt exam activities as many times as needed to receive their diploma.
Since NEDP is completed individually, learners must navigate time-management, communication, and problem-solving skills— soft skills beneficial for post-secondary education. There are even scholarship opportunities available to exceptional NEDP graduates planning to attend college.
Consider AoH alum Jasmine B. While preparing to enroll in college, Jasmine learned that her previous high school had lost accreditation, invalidating her diploma. Rather than allowing this setback to derail her goal of becoming a surgeon, she enrolled in AoH’s NEDP program.
Her excellent scores and inspiring story would earn her multiple scholarships to fund her post-secondary education. She would earn $500 from the 2025 NEDP Changing Lives Scholarship, tuition assistance only gifted to two alumni nationwide. Combined with her Federal Student Aid Pell Grant eligibility, Jasmine can now attend college for free. She plans to enroll in the University of the District of Columbia to pick up on her dream.
By participating in our Stride for Hope 5K/Walk and Homecoming Festival, you directly invest in adult learners like Jasmine who are working towards making a difference in their lives and for the community. When you run, walk, or cheer from the sidelines, you show adult learners that you care about them and their education.
Interested in making an impact? Register for the 5K & Homecoming Festival.