Amador Community College Foundation
Accessible education and career success — right here in Amador County.
Our mission: to provide accessible education opportunities in a supportive environment for career success in Amador County.
Amador College Connect is a completely free local resource center that quickly and easily connects people to online college classes, certifications, and career programs — with hands-on help at every step of the way.
programs
What We Offer
Amador College Connect serves as a regional hub for opportunity, connecting new and returning students to accessible pathways in workforce training, industry-recognized certifications, and higher education empowering individuals to build skills, grow professionally, and advance meaningful careers within their community and beyond.
For High Schoolers High School Dual Enrollment
Dual enrollment is a term used to describe a high school student who is also enrolled in college courses. Through Amador College Connect, high school students can earn college credits while going to high school; saving time & money on future college courses.
What You Need to Know:
One college credit equals 3.33 high school credits! For example, a 3-credit college course in English will complete 10 high-school English credits!
Scholarship · Up to $2,000/yr Behavioral Health Services Act (BHSA) Certification Program
The MHSA/BHSA (Behavioral Health Services Act) Scholarship Fund is administered by the Amador Community College Foundation under contract with the Amador County Behavioral Health Department. This scholarship supports Amador County residents pursuing a Human Services (HS) Certificate through Coastline Community College via Amador College Connect. Upon completing the HS Certificate, students may apply funds toward an AA in Human Services or a related field (e.g., criminal justice, child development, gerontology, social services).
What You Need to Know:
Award: Up to $2,000 per student, per year (tuition, fees, and books)
Career Pathways · CS & ECE K16 Career Pathway Programs in Computer Science & Early Childhood Education
Amador College Connect, partnering with Columbia College and industry partners, are excited to offer two exciting career pathway programs, free of charge, in Early Childhood Education and Computer Science.
What You Need to Know:
he K16 Grant covers classes, tuition, and books — plus a $500 completion reward — for residents of Amador, Calaveras, and Alpine counties.
For Employees · Up to $1,500/yr Jackson Rancheria Employee Scholarship Program
The Jackson Rancheria Scholarship Fund is administered by the Amador Community College Foundation under contract with the Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort. This scholarship supports Jackson Rancheria employees pursuing classes, certificates, or degree programs through Amador College Connect's accredited community college partners.
What You Need to Know:
Award: Up to $1,500 per year | $5,000 lifetime maximum (tuition, fees, and books)
For Adult Learners Adult Education for Career Advancement
Adult education is designed for individuals returning to learning after time away from school, whether to change careers, build new skills, or stay competitive in today's workforce. Amador College Connect provides a locally rooted, personalized approach that helps adult learners navigate the path back into education and training — removing barriers, simplifying the process, and creating clear pathways to better jobs, higher wages, and long-term career growth.
What You Need to Know:
Adult learners can earn certifications, complete college coursework, finish a diploma, upskill for a career change, or transfer to a four-year university — all with flexible scheduling and personalized local support.
Receiving Financial Aid & Scholarship Assistance
Services
What We Provide
Amador College Connect provides a comprehensive system of support designed to help students succeed at every stage of their educational and career journey.
Funding Support Financial Aid & Scholarship Assistance
Amador College Connect provides financial aid and scholarship assistance through a hands-on, personalized approach that ensures students can not only access funding but confidently navigate the entire process from start to finish.
One on One Appointment Support
Staff work directly with students to complete the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application (CADAA), providing step-by-step guidance to ensure forms are accurate, complete, and submitted on time.
Scholarship Identification and Matching
Students are connected to local, regional, and statewide scholarship opportunities that align with their goals, background, and field of study—expanding access to funding they may not find on their own.
Application Coaching and Review
Amador College Connect helps students strengthen their scholarship applications by providing support with essays, personal statements, and required materials, increasing their competitiveness.
Financial Aid Literacy and Advising
Students receive clear guidance on understanding different types of aid—including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study—so they can make informed financial decisions.
Award Letter Review and Planning
Staff assist students in reviewing financial aid award packages, comparing options, and developing a plan to cover the total cost of attendance.
Verification and Document Support
Students are guided through any additional steps required after applying, including financial aid verification, document submission, and resolving issues that could delay funding.
Access To Local and Employer-Based Services
Amador College Connect helps facilitate and promote place-based scholarships, including those offered by local organizations, employers, and community partners. Amador College Connect helps facilitate and promote place-based scholarships, including those offered by local organizations, employers, and community partners.
Workshops and Community Events
The organization hosts financial aid nights, scholarship workshops, and hands-on completion events for students and families, making the process more accessible and less intimidating.
Ongoing Support and Renewal Guidance
Support continues beyond the first application, with guidance on maintaining eligibility, completing renewal requirements, and securing funding year after year.
Through this comprehensive support system, Amador College Connect removes financial barriers and empowers students to access the resources they need to start and successfully complete their education and career training programs.
Devices & Connectivity Access to Essential Technology
Amador College Connect provides access to technology by removing the digital barriers that often prevent students in rural communities from fully participating in education and workforce training programs. Through a combination of direct resources, shared spaces, and hands-on support, the organization ensures students have the tools they need to succeed in both in-person and online learning environments.
Access To Devices
Students are provided with access to essential equipment such as laptops and other learning devices, either through direct distribution, loan programs, or on-site availability. This ensures that lack of personal technology is not a barrier to enrollment or completion.
Reliable Internet and Connectivity
Amador College Connect offers access to high-speed internet through designated learning spaces, helping students who may not have reliable connectivity at home. This is especially critical for completing coursework, participating in virtual classes, and accessing online resources.
Technology-Enabled Learning Enviorments
Students can utilize dedicated spaces equipped with up-to-date technology to support studying, coursework, and workforce training. These environments are designed to be welcoming, structured, and conducive to productivity.
Digital Literacy and Technical Support
Beyond access, students receive support in building confidence with technology, learning how to navigate learning platforms, complete online assignments, use productivity tools, and troubleshoot common issues.
Support for Hybrid and Online Programs
Amador College Connect ensures students are prepared to engage in hybrid and fully online programs by providing both the tools and the guidance needed to succeed in digital learning formats.
Workforce-Aligned Technology Access
For career pathway programs such as computer science and other technical fields, students gain exposure to industry-relevant tools and platforms, helping them build practical, job-ready skills.
By combining equipment, connectivity, learning space, and ongoing support, Amador College Connect creates an inclusive digital ecosystem—ensuring that all students, regardless of background or location, have equitable access to the technology needed to achieve their educational and career goals.
Welcoming Spaces Supportive Work & Learning Environments That Promote Success
Amador College Connect provides supportive work and learning environments by intentionally creating spaces—both physical and relational—where students feel welcomed, supported, and equipped to succeed from day one through completion.
Safe, Welcoming, and Student-Centered Spaces
Students have access to dedicated environments that are quiet, structured, and designed for focus and productivity. These spaces foster a sense of belonging, which is especially important for students who may be new to college or returning after time away.
On-Site Guidance and Mentorship
Staff are available to provide real-time support, whether it’s help staying on track with assignments, navigating challenges, or connecting students to additional resources. This consistent presence helps students build confidence and momentum.
Flexible Work & Study Options
Recognizing the realities of rural and working students, Amador College Connect offers flexible environments where students can balance coursework with jobs, family responsibilities, and other commitments.
Cohort-Based and Peer Learning Opportunities
Whenever possible, students are connected with peers in similar programs or pathways, creating a sense of community, accountability, and shared progress that increases persistence and completion.
Integrated Support Services
Academic, career, financial aid, and technology supports are all accessible within the same environment, reducing the need for students to navigate multiple systems on their own.
Encouragement, Accountability, and Persistence Support
Staff actively check in with students, helping them set goals, overcome barriers, and stay motivated. This proactive approach ensures students don’t fall through the cracks.
Connection to Career Pathways
Work and learning environments are tied directly to career-focused programs, helping students clearly see how their education connects to real-world opportunities and local employment.
By combining physical space, human support, and intentional program design, Amador College Connect creates environments where students are not only able to participate—but are positioned to thrive, persist, and successfully reach their educational and career goals.
Step-by-Step Help Hands-On Guidance Through the Registration & Enrollment Process
Amador College Connect provides hands-on guidance through the registration and enrollment process by walking alongside students at every step—removing confusion, simplifying complex systems, and ensuring nothing stands in the way of getting started.
Personalized Onboarding Support
Students receive one-on-one assistance from the very beginning, helping them understand their options, choose the right program or pathway, and map out next steps based on their goals.
Application & Enrollment Assistance
Staff guide students through completing college applications, setting up student accounts, and navigating enrollment platforms—ensuring all required steps are completed accurately and on time.
Course Selection & Education Planning
Students are supported in selecting the right classes that align with their academic and career goals, helping them avoid missteps and stay on a clear, efficient pathway.
Placement, Orientation, and Requirements Navigation
Amador College Connect helps students complete placement processes, register for orientation, and meet all onboarding requirements so they can begin classes without delays.
Troubleshooting Barriers in Real Time
Whether it’s resolving holds, missing documents, login issues, or registration errors, staff provide immediate support to keep students moving forward.
Coordination with College Partners
The organization works closely with partner community colleges to streamline enrollment processes, advocate for students, and ensure a smooth transition into programs.
Ongoing Check-Ins Through Enrollment
Support doesn’t stop once students register—Amador College Connect continues to follow up to confirm students are successfully enrolled, prepared for their first day, and connected to needed resources.
Support for Special Populations
Additional guidance is provided for dual enrollment students, adult learners, and first-generation college students, ensuring each group receives tailored support based on their unique needs.
Through this high-touch, personalized approach, Amador College Connect transforms what can often be a complicated and overwhelming process into a clear, supported, and successful entry into college and career pathways.
Coaching & Persistence Ongoing Support to Stay on Track, Overcome Barriers & Achieve Goals
Amador College Connect provides ongoing support by staying actively engaged with students throughout their entire educational journey ensuring they remain on track, navigate challenges, and successfully reach their academic and career goals.
Proactive Check-Ins and Case Management
Staff maintain regular contact with students through one-on-one check-ins to monitor progress, provide encouragement, and address challenges early before they become barriers to success.
Individualized Success Planning
Each student receives personalized guidance aligned to their goals, helping them stay focused on milestones such as course completion, credential attainment, and career placement.
Academic and Career Coaching
Students are supported with ongoing advising that connects their coursework to long-term career outcomes, reinforcing purpose and motivation while helping them make informed decisions along the way.
Barrier Identification and Resolution
Whether students face financial challenges, transportation issues, technology gaps, or personal obstacles, Amador College Connect works to identify solutions quickly and connect students with the right resources.
Coordination of Wraparound Services
The organization connects students to a network of supports—including tutoring, financial aid assistance, workforce services, and community resources—so they are not navigating challenges alone.
Progress Monitoring and Intervention
Student progress is actively tracked, allowing staff to step in with timely interventions if a student begins to fall behind, withdraw, or disengage.
Peer and Cohort Support
Students are encouraged to build connections with peers in similar programs, creating a support system that fosters accountability, belonging, and persistence.
Through this consistent, high-touch approach, Amador College Connect ensures that students are not just enrolled but fully supported, resilient, and positioned to achieve meaningful, long-term success.
Community Connections Connections to a Network of Care & Local Resources
Amador College Connect provides supportive work and learning environments by intentionally creating spaces—both physical and relational—where students feel welcomed, supported, and equipped to succeed from day one through completion.
Strong Community Partnerships
Amador College Connect collaborates with local nonprofits, school districts, workforce agencies, tribal partners, and social service providers to create a coordinated support system. These partnerships allow for warm handoffs and seamless referrals so students can quickly access help when needed.
Centralized Hub for Resources
Serving as a trusted, local hub, Amador College Connect helps students navigate what can often be a fragmented system. Instead of searching on their own, students are connected directly to the right organization, program, or service.
Wraparound Support Coordination
The organization takes a holistic approach by connecting students to services such as transportation assistance, childcare resources, food support, mental health services, housing assistance, and financial counseling, addressing the real-life barriers that impact persistence.
Trusted Relationships and Advocacy
Because of its deep roots in the community, Amador College Connect is able to advocate on behalf of students, helping them access services more easily and ensuring their needs are understood by partner organizations.
Localized, Place-Based Approach
In a rural region like the Sierra, relationships matter. Amador College Connect leverages local knowledge and trust to connect students with culturally relevant, accessible, and responsive services close to home.
Ongoing Communication and Collaboration
Regular communication with partners ensures services stay aligned, gaps are identified, and new opportunities are developed to better serve students and the broader community.
Student-Centered Navigation
Rather than simply providing information, staff walk alongside students helping them understand their options, complete applications, and follow through with services to ensure connections turn into real support.
Through this coordinated network of care, Amador College Connect ensures that students are supported as whole individuals, not just learners—creating the conditions for long-term success in education, career, and life.
Get in touch
Schedule an Appointment
Ready to start your college and career journey? Reach out to our enrollment specialists — we'll find a time that works for you.
💡 Before your visit, complete the ACCF General Interest Form so your enrollment specialist is ready to help when you arrive.
We Can't Wait To Hear From You!
Schedule an appointment with an enrollment specialist today
Complete the ACCF general interest form prior to your meeting so our enrollment specialists are ready to help you start your college and career journey when you arrive.
Optionally, you can also fill out a new student intake form prior to your appointment. We will go over this with you during your session regardless.
See Our Student Success Stories
Carter Cowan, Dual Enrollment
Carter Cowan used Amador College Connect's dual enrollment program to complete multiple college courses at Coastline Community College while still in high school, before heading to Argentina on a Rota... ...more
High School Dual Enrollment
May 01, 2026•1 min read
Michael Garcia
Michael Garcia completed Amador College Connect's apprenticeship program with Jackson Rancheria and Columbia College, earned his journeyman's card in Hospitality Management, and now teaches culinary a... ...more
Jackson Rancheria Employee Scholarship Program
May 01, 2026•1 min read
Juliana Campos, MHSA Program
Juliana Campos enrolled in the MHSA Program through Amador College Connect as a single working mother and landed a full-time position at Nexus Youth and Family Services supporting children and familie... ...more
MHSA Scholarship
May 01, 2026•1 min read
Stay In The Loop
ACC Center Calendar & Hours
Hours, closures, board meetings, workshops, and partner events — all in one place. Updated regularly so you always know when we're open and what's happening next.
Center Hours
Monday − Thursday: 11:00 AM − 6:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM − 1:00 PM
Saturday − Sunday: Closed
Holiday Breaks & Center Closures
Memorial Day: 5/25/2026
Juneteenth National Independence Day: 6/19/2026
Summer Break: 6/29/2026-7/3/2026
Labor Day: 9/7/2026
Indigenous People's Day: 10/12/2026
Veteran's Day: 11/11/2026
Fall Break: 11/23/2026-11/27/2026
Winter Break: 12/21/2026-1/1/2027
Board Meetings, Agendas & Minutes
ACCF Board Meeting: 5/21/2026
ACCF Board Meeting: 6/18/2026
ACCF Board Meeting: 7/18/2026
ACCF Board Meeting: 8/20/2026
ACCF Board Meeting: 9/17/2026
ACCF Board Meeting: 10/15/2026
ACCF Board Meeting: 11/19/2026
Upcoming ACC Workshops & Events
K16 Graduation Ceremony @ Domenico Winery: 6/1/2026
Amador College Connect Open House: 8/25/2026
Community & Partner Events
Domenico Winery Fundraising Event: 10/17/2025
Giving Tuesday (online all day OR in person) with St. Katharine Drexel Church: 12/1/2025
Amador County Chamber of Commerce Mixer with Elks Club: 1/13/2027
Amador College Connect is a completely free local resource center that quickly and easily connects people to online college classes and other programs/coursework by providing help at every step of the process, from filling out financial aid forms to signing up for classes, tutoring, and more.
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A Nonprofit 501(C)(3) Tax exempt organization.
Tax ID #45-5329557
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