Building future paths as unique as our kids.
Find the right resources to help your teen thrive.
This is your one-stop shop for alternative pathway resources. Because our teens are not all the same. They come from different financial backgrounds, different levels of readiness, and wildly different dreams. Path Makers is here to help you find the right next step, not just the most common one.
Curated programs we know and trust.
Every program below has been reviewed by Path Makers. We only list programs we'd recommend to our own families.
Program name coming soon
Featured partner description coming soon. This slot is reserved for a curated gap year program partner.
Volunteer Program
Program description coming soon. This card will link to the program's website with full details on cost, duration, and how to apply.
Work & Earn Program
Program description coming soon. This card will link to the program's website with full details on cost, duration, and how to apply.
Language Immersion Program
Program description coming soon. This card will link to the program's website with full details on cost, duration, and how to apply.
Structured Academic Gap Year
Program description coming soon. This card will link to the program's website with full details on cost, duration, and how to apply.
Service Corps Program
Program description coming soon. This card will link to the program's website with full details on cost, duration, and how to apply.
Adventure & Leadership Program
Program description coming soon. This card will link to the program's website with full details on cost, duration, and how to apply.
Learn a skill. Build a career.
Skilled trades are in high demand, pay well, and often cost a fraction of a four-year degree. These programs get teens into the workforce faster, with less debt and more certainty.
Healthcare & Allied Health
Programs coming soon
Skilled Trades
Programs coming soon
Technology & IT
Programs coming soon
Culinary & Hospitality
Programs coming soon
Cosmetology & Esthetics
Programs coming soon
Aviation & Transportation
Programs coming soon
Affordable. Flexible. Closer than you think.
Community colleges offer transfer pathways to four-year universities, dual enrollment for high schoolers, and career programs, often at a fraction of the cost. Find resources by state below.
Don't see your state? More coming soon.
Gap years don't have to break the bank.
From scholarships to smart budgeting, there are more ways to fund an intentional year than most families realize.
Scholarships & Grants
Scholarship Name
Amount TBD · Description coming soon
Scholarship Name
Amount TBD · Description coming soon
Scholarship Name
Amount TBD · Description coming soon
Recommended Reading
Do the planning work with confidence.
We've done the research so you don't have to. These guides and tools walk you through the hardest parts of the planning process, step by step.
Gap Year Planning Workbook
A step-by-step guide to planning an intentional, structured gap year your whole family can get behind.
Trade School Research Template
Know exactly what to ask, compare, and consider when evaluating trade programs for your teen.
State-by-State College Alternative Guide
Community colleges, dual enrollment programs, and transfer pathways — organized by state.
Gap Year Budget Calculator
A simple spreadsheet that helps you plan and fund a gap year on almost any budget.
Is a Gap Year Right for My Teen? Results Guide
The companion guide to our quiz — with tailored program recommendations for each result bucket.
Not sure where to start?
Take our 5-minute quiz and we'll point you in the right direction.
Take the quiz →