In 2012, DHS and the Michigan Education Trust (MET) partnered on an event designed to ensure that former foster youth who wished to choose a path of self-sufficiency and achievement through higher education would have the opportunity to do so.  More than $20,000 was raised in 2012 - but our goal for 2013 is to raise even more for the youth who deserve our help.

We thank Governor and Mrs. Snyder as well as Mr. and Mrs. Paul W. Smith for acting as honorary chairs for this event.  We also thank the host committee for agreeing to help us
raise funds through event ticket sales, procurement of auction items and corporate sponsorships.  This event could not happen without your help.

Already we are off to a strong start due to the generosity of Meijer, which is providing a substantial sponsorship.  Paul and Amy Blavin have also agreed to match the evening's proceeds up to $50,000.

The sponsorship toolkit on this page will be continually updated.  We invite you
to send potential sponsors links to these documents, which outline the event
and the opportunities available.

We are here to help and support you in this effort - just as you have so graciously agreed
to help and support our foster youth.  If you have any questions about the event or need additional support materials, please contact MET Executive Director Robin Lott at lottr@michigan.gov.

Again, thank you for your help.

Statistics for Youth Leaving the Foster Care System are Tragic

1 in 5 or more will become homeless after age 18.

7 of 10 women will be pregnant by their 21st birthday.

Just half will be employed at 24.

Fewer than 3% will earn a college degree by 25.

1 in 4 will be incarcerated within two years of leaving foster care.

Programs like Fostering Futures and legislation that voluntarily extends foster care to age 21 will help Michigan change these numbers and change lives.