“I feel certain that other banks would be able to enjoy a productive relationship with foster youth in their communities.”  -- Terese Gainer, services supervisor, Livingston County DHS

By BILL PERRY

LANSING — Michigan relies on businesses, along with the public and educational sectors to build an educated workforce for the future. Education is critical to a strong economic foundation for the state. One community bank in Southeastern Michigan has accepted its role in this effort and f...

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What?
> Michigan Youth Opportunities Initiative and John Seita Scholars Program Kalamazoo Kickoff Event.

Why?
> To learn more about the scholarship program and the Michigan Youth Opportunities Initiative, which provide resources and support for older youth in foster care.

When?
> Friday, Feb. 12, 2010 (11:00am-1:00pm)... Lunch is included!

Where?
Western Michigan University
Multicultural Center, Trimpe Building
Kalamazoo, MI 49008

How?
> Contact Selene and let her know you'd like to go!

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Aquinas College (Grand Rapids, Michigan):

In an effort to assist young adults leaving the Michigan Foster Care System, Aquinas College offers the Fostering Success Scholarship Initiative.  This initiative ensures that two prospective students per academic year will receive scholarships and grants covering tuition, room, board and book costs. 

Recipients must be Michigan Resident...

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Western Michigan University Foster Youth & Higher Education Initiative:

WMU has a program with three major components:

1.              Student outreach and recruitment – WMU offers incoming freshmen the John Seita Scholarship, which waives tuition fees as long as students live on their campus.  On-campus housing will be available at WMU throughout the year and on breaks. 

2.  ...

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Apply for FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).  Go to www.fafsa.ed.gov

 

Contact your DHS caseworker and ask for Word documents:

DHS-945

DHS-944

Change in federal student financial aid as of July 2009:  P.L. 110-84 (College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 20...

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There is a new non-profit agency called EduGuide, based out of Lansing, that assists student, families, and educators with ensuring that students meet their full potential.  You may have seen their EduGuide magazines at events you have attended for MYOI, or been to their website.

EduGuide is beginning to rebuild their website to be more interactive and MYOI wanted to make sure that they are including the population of foster youth/former foster youth.  

Please take a minute to go to the EduGuid...
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Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Applications for Disabled Youth Transitioning out of Foster Care

Background

Effective immediately, we may accept an SSI application from a disabled youth in foster care up to 90 days before federal foster care payments are expected to end. This is an exception to the general rule of accepting an SSI application in the month before the month of eligibility. This policy will aid disabled youth in foster care to make the transition to adult life by helping...

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