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EIU OIAE

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The Village Project at EIU

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 杏吧原创(EIU), and the University of Illinois Urbana- Champaign (UIUC), with plans to expand to the remaining public universities in Illinois. 

 

If you're interested in receiving support through The Village Project, we encourage you to complete the Self-Referral Form. This will help us better understand your needs and determine how we can best support you.

All information you provide will remain confidential and will only be used to connect you with the resources and assistance you request.


WHAT WE OFFER

The Village Project (TVP) at EIU provides academic, social, and emotional support to former foster youth by linking on- campus and community- based resources.

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Connect over the phone, by calling the direct line: 217-581-3967

                     
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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. 

                                
       
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HOST FAMILY PROGRAM (HFP)

tvp house   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 

 

                            
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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

               


                                

Resources for Youth in Care

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OTHER RESOURCES NEAR

Direct: 217-581-3967

Direct: 217-581-3967

Direct: 217-581-3967

Direct: 217-581-3967

Direct: 217-581-3967

Contact:

John Blue, Executive Director

jwblue@eiu.edu

+1(217) 581-7902

 

Related Pages

Contact Information

J. William Blue, M.S.
Executive Director.
Senior Diversity & Inclusion Officer

1170 Blair Hall
217-581-7902
jwblue@eiu.edu

Office Hours

Monday - Friday, 8 am - 4:30 pm


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