College Road Trips
Get Inspired
Each year, Foster Progress travels to Illinois colleges, bringing students, parents, and mentors to find out which colleges deliver success for youth in foster care! If you have always imagined yourself in college, now is the time to start your search. The trips are FREE to all youth ages 15 and up who were ever in foster care. Come explore schools like Northern Illinois University, DePaul University, and Loyola University.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can come?
Anyone who has ever been in foster care, ages 15 and up. Returned home? Yes! Adopted? Yes! Group home? Yes! ILO? Yes! TLP? Yes! Do you have to be in our mentoring program to come on the trip? No!
These trips are intended for youth who are interested in attending college after high school. Youth should conduct themselves as a college-bound student, ready to make a good impression and engage with the day’s activities. Youth who are disrespectful will not be invited to attend future trips.
Mentors, caseworkers, and foster parents are invited to attend with their student participant as well.
How does transportation work?
Foster Progress staff will be driving a rented van. A meeting spot will be determined for each College Road Trip, and will be shared in advance of the trip. If you can't make it to the pick up location, we can try to arrange a ride for you with a volunteer or provide you with a credit for transportation. Let us know in advance if you need transportation assistance.
What is the timing?
We will confirm the specific timing for each College Road Trip through email in advance of the trip. Typically, we are scheduling day trips that begin between 7-9am with a return between 6-7pm. Trip timing will vary depending on the school that we are visiting.
What should I bring?
A good attitude, your interest and curiosity, and a willingness to learn about the college we are visiting! Meals are provided, and be sure to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.