The numbers are sobering. Nationally, it is estimated between 69% and 85% of students who have experienced foster care complete high school by their mid-20s, and just 8% to 11% go on to earn a postsecondary degree (associate's or higher)--five times lower than the national average.* In Michigan, there are approximately 10,000 children are in the foster care system at any given time. As they reach adult age, having adequate resources to attain their dream of a college education is critical to having a successful future.
Since 2012, fundraising efforts have totaled over $1,400,000; all of which have been awarded as scholarships in the year they were raised. This was done through individual donations, group donations, sponsorships, ticket sales, auctions and many volunteer based fundraising events. Fostering Futures Scholarships were expanded to include any Michigan degree granting college or university.
* Source: Okpych, N. J., Whitman, K., Lee, J., Neria-Piña, L., Jackson, L. A., & Day, M. (2025). Secondary and Postsecondary Education Outcomes of Students with Experience in Foster Care: Systematic Review of the Literature From 2000–2023. AERA Open, 11. https://doi.org/10.1177/23328584251331454 (Original work published 2025)
We are excited to announce a new way to help support youth who have experienced foster care--become a Sustaining Partner by making a recurring monthly donation. Your monthly donation, big or small, makes a BIG impact.
Join us September 12 for our Detroit fundraising dinner.
Thank you to everyone who attended, because of your generosity we raised more than $39,000.
Thank you to everyone who attended, because of your generosity we raised nearly $40,000.
Thank you to everyone who attended, because of your generosity we raised more than $100,000.
