Amherst Committee for A Better Chance (ABC)

ABC is a national residential high school program that prepares academically talented and highly motivated African American, Latinx, Asian, and Native American students from educationally underserved school districts for college and future leadership roles in the broader community. Since the program began, over 130 students have attended Amherst Regional High School, which offers a rich college preparatory curriculum and an array of extracurricular and sports activities. Graduates have attended more than 50 colleges and universities.

Scholars live family-style in the ABC House at 74 North Prospect Street in downtown Amherst. ABC Resident Directors provide a warm supportive environment enriched by daily sessions with Amherst College tutors. ABC Board members, community mentors and ARHS faculty and staff also offer guidance and support. ABC Scholars forge lasting bonds with local host families through monthly weekend visits and additional enrichment activities.

While many Amherst ABC Scholars come from urban neighborhoods in Massachusetts and New York, some have come from as far away as Ohio, Indiana, Arkansas and New Mexico. The Amherst A Better Chance program depends on proceeds of the annual Fall Foliage & Cider Run each fall to maintain this highly successful residential model. Thanks to those of you who have supported us in the past.