Education Support Programs
The Fred Finch Education Support Programs (ESP) provide vital funds to existing and future clinicians. This ambitious and innovative initiative consists of two branches: The Education Reimbursement Program and the Degree Assistance Program (DAP). Full- and part-time employees in good standing who have worked with Fred Finch for at least a year are eligible to apply. We firmly believe that investing in our employees and supporting their futures will allow them to help countless individuals in the years to come.
Degree Assistance Program
Fred Finch designed the Degree Assistance Program (DAP) to provide select employees annual financial support to pursue a course of study leading to a master’s or bachelor’s degree in a field of study related to their work. DAP participants receive up to $10,000 annually toward the cost of completing their education.
Education Reimbursement Program
The Education Reimbursement Program (ERP) provides financial support to employees completing coursework toward an associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree or certification in a field related to their work at Fred Finch. ERP participants receive up to $1,000 in reimbursement for approved educational expenses in a calendar year.
Join Fred Finch Today
& Invest in Your Future
At FF, we're committed to providing our employees with the support and resources they need to succeed. Whether you're interested in pursuing a degree through the DAP program or completing coursework through the ERP program, we're here to help you achieve your educational goals, enhance your career development and industry knowledge. If you're interested in learning more about these programs or other career opportunities at FF, we invite you to explore our career page or contact us directly at recruiter@fredfinch.org. Take the first step towards investing in your future and join our team today!
Former DAP Recipients
Francesca Rankin, 2023
Francesca went through an extensive and competitive process, voted for by the Fred Finch Board of Directors, and will receive a $10.000 scholarship to continue to advance her education.
Karlianne Rubcic, 2021, 2022
Karlianne knew when she joined Fred Finch that she ultimately wanted to be a therapist. With DAP funding she began a master's program in Counseling Psychology at Santa Clara University in the fall of 2021 and will be graduating in 2024. She plans to continue her clinical work at Fred Finch in the years follow and possibly pursue doctoral studies in the future.
Lucas Maia, 2020, 2021
Lucas Maia, a Behavior Technician for CARES, will be starting his studies toward a BA in Psychology at CSU San Marcos and, while he’s undecided about the specific professional path he will take, his priority is to be of greater help to the families he works with.
Andrea Jones, 2021
Andrea Jones, Specialist Counselor at Rising Oaks and formerly Turning Point, is transferring to Humboldt State University to pursue a BA in Social Work. This award will enable her to become a first-generation college graduate and be a beacon for underprivileged youth.
Glenda Cruz, 2020
Glenda Cruz, a Therapeutic Behavioral Services worker for TBS San Mateo, will be pursuing an MA in Counseling with her DAP funds. She joined Fred Finch just the year prior, but she new she wanted to work with children since she was 15.
Karina Helgeson, 2020
Karina Helgeson, Regional Development Manager in Southern California, is using her DAP funds to pursue a BA in Communications. She started as a Family Partner with Fred Finch over ten years ago, demonstrating her commitment to the youth and families we serve.
Katie Estberg, 2020
Katie Estberg, a Regional Clinical Supervisor for CARES, had only worked with Fred Finch for a year but her commitment and dedication was immediately evident. With DAP funding, Katie will be completing coursework to prepare for a PsyD.
Mark Blackshear, 2020
Mark Blackshear, a Behavior Counselor for Specialized Wraparound, has worked in three other Fred Finch programs since he joined the agency in 2014. He will be pursuing an MA in Counseling with DAP funding.