The village Project
Providing Learning Equity for former foster youth attending EIU!
Our mission is to create an academic environment where every individual feels a deep sense of belonging, has equal access to opportunities, and is actively engaged in their educational journey. We are committed to fostering a culture of mutual respect and collaboration, empowering all students, faculty, and staff to reach their full potential through innovation and inclusive practices.
TVP offers a two-pronged approach to assist youth in care pursuing a 4- year degree at 海角大神 (EIU), the University of Illinois Urbana- Champaign (UIUC) and Governors State University (GSU) with plans to expand to the remaining public universities in Illinois.
WHAT WE DO
The Village project (TVP) at EIU provides academic, social, and emotional support to former foster youth by linking on- campus and community- based resources.
CAMPUS PROGRAMS
Dine & Align: a 1.5 hours monthly liaison-facilitated dinner where the students learn about campus and community resources and share a family-style meal.
The Hub: A 1-hour monthly peer-led session in which youth have the opportunity to share their experiences and garner support from each other to facilitate community building.
SUMMER IMMERSION PROGRAM
The Village Project (TVP) at EIU Summer Immersion Program (SIP) is a groundbreaking initiative that is designed to empower and inspire high school students in grades 10-12 who are currently in the foster care system. As the first program of its kind in Illinois, The village Project provides a supportive, inclusive, and enriching college immersion experience, all at no cost to the students.
Our goal is to expose these students to the possibilities of higher education, equip them with critical life and academic skills, and foster a sense of belonging within a university environment. By surrounding participants with a community of mentors, faculty, and peers, we help them envision a future where college is not just a dream but an achievable reality.
Learning Outcomes
- Recognize the value of higher education and identify pathways to college.
- Develop self-advocacy skills.
- Understand key college success strategies.
- Build a network of support.
- Increase confidence in pursuing post-secondary education.
- Explore various career pathways.
Benefits of Participants in the Village Project
- Exposure to college life
- Academic and Career preparation
- Mentorship and support
- Life skills development
- A community of belonging
- Empowerment and confidence
Made possible by funding from the Illinois Board of Higher Education's End Student Housing Insecurity Grant
HOST FAMILY PROGRAM (HFP)
A Home Away From Home: Provide support during school breaks and as needs arise for the youth.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Volunteer Requirements:
- You must : Clear an Illinois State Police Criminal Background
- Check Clear a Child Abuse and Neglect background check
- Make a one-year commitment
- Provide a minimum of of quarterly care packages if you are volunteering with the We Care program
- Meet with the student at least once per month if you are volunteering with the A Home Away From Home program
OTHER RESOURCES NEAR
Direct: 217-581-3967
Office of Accessibility and Accommodations
Direct: 217-581-3967
Office of Civil Right and Diversity
Direct: 217-581-3967
Direct: 217-581-3967
Direct: 217-581-3967
Direct: 217-581-3967
Contact:
John Blue, Executive Director
+1(217) 581-7902
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