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Wayne State University - CHAMPS Program

The CHAMPS Program at Wayne State works to increase college access and improve graduation rates of foster care youth in Southeast Michigan through research, advocacy, financial, and academic support, all while helping students to create lasting personal and professional connections. CHAMPS partners with several departments across campus including Financial Aid, Counseling, Admissions, Student Disability Services and Housing departments to name a few. All units house designated champions that have participated in a series of trainings to become more sensitive to the unique needs and challenges of foster care youth. There are no age restrictions put on foster care youth in accessing services offered by campus champions. CHAMPS also works with a plethora of off-campus partners who provides students with access to a number of free services ranging from assistance with legal issues to ETV enrollment. Students also have opportunities to engage in various leadership programs across Detroit and Southeast Michigan.