Take Stock in Children of Orange County is administered by Valencia Community College, in collaboration with Orange County Public Schools. It is part of a statewide program that provides low-income, at-risk children with a college scholarship and a mentor in the effort to help them stay in school, earn a high school diploma, graduate from college and enter the workforce.

Participating children begin the program in the eighth grade and continue on until they graduate high school. They must sign performance contracts agreeing to get good grades, exhibit positive behaviors and remain drug and crime free. In return, they will receive a 2 + 2 Florida Pre-Paid scholarship, which provides two years tuition at any community college followed by two years tuition at any state university.

"We have many children in our county that are dreaming of going to college, and we are committed to making that dream a reality. This program will provide our children with a chance to obtain a higher education and will help them get there with the guidance of a caring mentor through middle and high school."