FAFSA opens October 1

On October 1, it will be time to submit your 2020-21 FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Remember, you need to do this for every single year that you’re attending college. You can fill out the form on your computer, on your phone using the myStudentAid mobile app on iOS or Android, or on paper (call 1-800-4-FEDAID to request a form). If you’re a returning user, you’ll need your user name and password (FSA ID) to log in.

Learn more at IowaCollegeAid.gov/FAFSA.

Zoo Trip Cancelled

After much contemplation, we have decided to cancel Saturday’s Zoo trip.  We plan to reschedule this event sometime in the spring, when there is better weather and lower numbers for Covid-19 (hopefully). 

I apologize for the inconvenience, although our biggest priority right now is safety for all.  I/we hope you are understanding of this, as this was something we were all looking forward to and it was a difficult decision to be made. 

Introducing AMP-Up

July 1, 2020
 

Achieving Maximum Potential (AMP) is excited to announce the creation of a new state-wide council called AMP-Up. AMP-Up is going to be for High School Seniors who are working towards graduation and are looking for information, resources, and guidance as they maneuver their pathway to post-secondary decision making. This council is open to any youth who has been in an out of home placement. 

The council will meet twice a month starting in August 2020.  The plan is to have one meeting virtually and one face-to-face meeting that will be at different places around the state including community colleges around the state.

The curriculum will include help with completing FASFA’s, education in trades, Labor Market information, college entrance exams, budgeting, completing college applications and lots more.

The goal is to help youth create a post High School plan for each participant.  Each youth will have a different plan or future path.  

The application process is simple, here is the link for the APPLICATION  or for more information contact:

Shelby Holsapple; sholsapple@foundation2.org or
 

Holly Dommer; hollydommer89@gmail.com

I wanted to share a free opportunity for youth to participate in a six-session virtual series focused on practical strategies to manage stress, difficult emotions, & help improve overall well-being, relationships, & performance in school, sports, the arts, & other daily activities.  The program will be offered for youth in grades 7-12 starting the week of June 1. This workshop series will be one hour, once a week for 6 weeks. They will receive The Mindful Teen book and journal. Deadline to register is May 24.

CLICK HERE for flyer

Aging out of foster care?  Aged out and searching for support?  Former foster youth and over the age of 21?  Then this is for you.

Please join us on Thursday, April 30^th at 7:00pm on our Let’s Talk! series on Facebook live (@weareYSS) for a conversation about the Iowa Aftercare Services Network and how it supports young adults as they leave the foster care system.  Panelists will share the ins and outs of the program along with program updates like the recent extension of benefits to age 23. 

In addition to experts from YSS, Elmer, a current client, will be sharing his experiences working with his self-sufficiency advocate and the benefits of participating in the program. 

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how you could receive free benefits, including a monthly stipend, to help you get a job, go to school, find stable housing, and so much more!

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