Portsmouth Futures

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About Us

Futures’ mission is to provide mentoring, encouragement and financial assistance to selected students
who show the ability, desire, and motivation to attend college, but lack the necessary resources.

Futures is a unique program that helps students prepare for college and, often, provides financial assistance toward that education.

How Did Futures Begin?

In the early 1990s, the late Joe Sawtelle, a generous and insightful local businessman, created Futures. This was spurred by an interaction with one of his youth employees.  One summer, he employed a bright young man and Joe let him know a number of times that he should go to college.  Toward the end of the summer, the boy’s mother came to see Joe and told him to stop putting ideas in her son’s head. They had no money and could not afford to pay for a college education. This incident spurred Joe, his friends, and local businesses to create a scholarship fund and program so that lack of money would not prevent qualified students from going to college and mentoring support for college could be provided.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility for Futures depends on several factors. The student should demonstrate a desire to learn and have an interest in higher education. Grades, ability, attitude, determination and family support are all considered. Most Futures students are the first in their family to go to college.  Financial need is a factor.  In January, a letter explaining the program is sent to all 8th-grade homes. Families can determine if their child meets the eligibility standards and can complete a preliminary application. Middle school teachers also recommend students for the program. It is competitive. Only six to eight 8th grade students are selected each year.