The Saranac Promise was undertaken in late 2013 with the goal of creating a college-going environment within Saranac Community Schools and assisting students with financial benefits.

Now — with an endowment established with the Grand Rapids Community Foundation — the Promise committee has raised about 40 percent of the $2-million goal.

The program started in 2014 with the promotion of existing scholarships. Phase two will kick off with Saranac High’s Class of 2016, whose graduates will be eligible for $1,000 grants for in-state enrollment.

The ultimate goal will be to cover tuition and fees not covered by federal or state grant sources. The gap scholarship could eventually reach $4,000 annually if the program’s fundraising goals are met.