About VAMOS

Valley Alliance of Mentors for Opportunities and Scholarships

Since 1996, the Valley Alliance of Mentors for Opportunities and Scholarships (VAMOS) has served as a beacon of hope for students in Hidalgo, Cameron, and Starr Counties by providing financial assistance to pursue higher education. Founded by local civic and business leaders with a mission to break down barriers to college access for students in this region, VAMOS has evolved into a transformative force, empowering students to pursue their dreams and build a brighter future.

Through a variety of programs and initiatives, VAMOS equips students with the tools, resources, and support necessary to thrive both academically and personally. The organization’s mission is rooted in the belief that education is the key to unlocking potential and transforming lives. VAMOS awards four-year renewable scholarships to first-generation, low-income graduating high school seniors who demonstrate academic achievement and leadership potential. These scholarships are life-changing, opening doors to opportunities that once seemed out of reach and positively impacting entire communities.

To date, VAMOS has awarded more than $26 million in scholarships to over 1,400 students, made possible through the continued generosity of sponsors, donors, and grant funding. Beyond financial support, students receive ongoing guidance and resources to help them succeed in college, including a unique mentoring component. Each scholar is paired with a mentor who provides encouragement and maintains regular contact throughout the student’s college journey. As a result, VAMOS boasts an impressive 96% graduation rate, with students attending universities locally, across Texas, and out of state.

By investing in the education and future of students, VAMOS fosters a skilled, empowered workforce, and contributes to long-term regional economic growth. VAMOS alumni emerge as leaders and role models in their communities and remain actively engaged with the organization by mentoring current students and supporting fundraising efforts, ensuring the continued success of future generations of VAMOS scholars.

Our Mission:

The Valley Alliance of Mentors for Opportunities and Scholarships (VAMOS) is dedicated to making the dream of a college education a reality for graduating high school seniors of the Rio Grande Valley.

Our Vision:

Our vision is to secure essential support for academic scholarships to empower students to break barriers and achieve their educational goals.

VAMOS is a non-profit organization sustained through business sponsorships, individual giving, grants, alumni support, and volunteer services. To learn more or get involved, visit vamosscholars.org, email vamosed@vamosscholars.org, or call (956) 800-4085.