Featured organization: Radnor A Better Chance (ABC)
After graduating from Radnor High School in 1995, Rachel Kaplan knew of the Radnor A Better Chance (ABC) program but didn’t truly understand its impact until years later. Fast forward to 2020, when her family was invited to become a host family. Today, in a full-circle moment, Rachel’s youngest daughter and their Radnor ABC scholar are both graduating from Radnor High – 30 years after Rachel herself did.
Radnor ABC is part of the national A Better Chance organization and has been a vital part of the Radnor community for over 50 years. The program provides high-achieving students of color from underrepresented communities with the opportunity to attend top-performing high schools. Since its start, more than 125 scholars have gone through the program, gaining lifelong friendships, confidence, and a strong foundation for the future.
But the impact extends far beyond the students.
“Radnor ABC broadens our community, perspectives, awareness, and empathy,” Rachel shares. “In a rather homogeneous area, it’s easy to assume shared privilege. But having scholars in our community – and watching our own kids build meaningful relationships with them – is incredibly powerful.”
Rachel’s family has hosted Addy, a Radnor ABC scholar, since she entered high school. Over the last four years, Addy has become part of their extended family – sharing Sunday dinners, hikes, games, real conversations, and the simple comfort of being able to raid the fridge or take a nap upstairs.
“We originally signed up to support a brave 14-year-old taking a huge leap to pursue more opportunities. We had no idea how much we’d gain from the experience,” Rachel says.
Addy’s story is one of many ABC success stories. She’ll attend Ithaca College this fall on several scholarships, plans to major in communications and journalism, and will row for the women’s team. She’s also made a lasting mark at Radnor High – from leading multiple clubs to co-developing a new women’s studies course that will debut next year.
Rachel and her husband are now co-chairing the 2024 Radnor ABC Bash, the program’s annual celebration and fundraiser. This year’s event takes place May 9 at 118 North in Wayne, PA.
“The program houses, feeds, and mentors 10 students at a time through high school – it takes serious resources. We’re seeking donations, sponsors, and auction items to help meet our fundraising goals. If you’re local to Radnor and want to get involved, we’d love to see you at the event!”
Get tickets or donate to the Radnor ABC Bash here.
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