GEAR UP programs are successful in rural and urban communities, providing inspiration and empowerment. The program fosters partnerships and community-based strategies centered around the idea that preparing for college and careers should start early. GEAR UP involves students in middle school and supports them through high school and beyond, taking a comprehensive and systematic approach that has a lasting impact on schools. It also uses local resources to maximize federal investment, and for every federal GEAR UP dollar, there must be a matching non-GEAR UP dollar.