Lafayette to Host Free ALT Fair Exploring Alternatives to College

Families across the Bay Area are invited to discover the many paths available after high school at the West Coast ALT Fair, returning to Lafayette on Thursday, September 24, 2026.

Hosted by Prepare to Bloom, the ALT Fair is a free community event designed to introduce students, parents, educators, therapists, and counselors to the growing number of post-secondary options beyond the traditional four-year college experience. The event will take place from 5:00–8:00 p.m. at the Lafayette Public Library's Don Tatzin Community Hall.

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet directly with representatives from a wide range of organizations, including:

• Gap year and wellness programs
• Young adult transitional living programs
• College support and executive functioning programs
• Vocational and career training organizations
• Therapeutic and specialized post-secondary supports
• Apprenticeship and experiential learning opportunities

Rather than sitting through presentations, families can browse at their own pace, ask questions, compare programs, and have meaningful conversations with professionals who specialize in helping young adults find the right next step.

"The goal of the ALT Fair has always been to help families realize they have more options than they may have been told," said Shayna Abraham, founder of Prepare to Bloom. "Every student deserves a path that fits who they are, not just the path that's most familiar."

The event is designed for:

• Parents of high school, and young adult students
• High school students and recent graduates
• Young adults exploring next steps
• Therapists, educational consultants, and school and college counselors
• Anyone interested in learning more about nontraditional post-secondary opportunities

Admission is free, though advance registration is encouraged.

The ALT Fair will be followed by a professional networking day on Friday, September 25, bringing together referring professionals and program representatives from across the country to strengthen collaboration and improve access to resources for families.

For additional information or to register, visit Prepare to Bloom's ALT Fair page.