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.
The Village Project (TVP) at EIU provides academic, social, and emotional support to former foster youth by linking on- campus and community- based resources.
![]() Connect over the phone, by calling the direct line: 217-581-3967 |
![]() CAMPUS PROGRAMSDine & 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. |
![]() HOST FAMILY PROGRAM (HFP)
VOLUNTEERS NEEDEDVolunteer Requirements:
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![]() SUMMER IMMERSION PROGRAMThe 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
Benefits of Participants in the Village Project
Made possible by funding from the Illinois Board of Higher Education's End Student Housing Insecurity Grant |
Direct: 217-581-3967
Direct: 217-581-3967
Direct: 217-581-3967
Direct: 217-581-3967
Direct: 217-581-3967
John Blue, Executive Director
+1(217) 581-7902
1170 Blair Hall
217-581-7902
jwblue@eiu.edu
Monday - Friday, 8 am - 4:30 pm