Navigating college can be difficult, but don’t worry, we’ve got you.

Y-CAP (Youth in Care - College Advocate Program) provides youth with foster care experience ongoing support in navigating the college landscape. Peer Advocates and their mentees collaborate to build community, develop healthy social networks, and overcome the challenges of college life through mutual support and relationship building.

Peer Advocates are current college students with foster care experience who are on track to complete their programs of study. They’ve experienced the joys and challenges of college life and they share that knowledge with their mentees.

Y-CAP groups are active at:

University of Illinois at Chicago

University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign
Northern Illinois University

Harold Washington College

Northeastern Illinois University
Governors State University
Illinois State University

Peer Advocates help you navigate the college landscape with ease.

Advocates are here to support you through one-on-one meetings, group sessions, and community events. Peer Advocates help you find the tools and resources that you need to successfully complete your program while also partnering to build strong social and academic communities.

College Funding

Peer Advocates are here to support you in accessing various college funding resources. From assisting with filling out your FAFSA to keeping you informed about upcoming funding opportunities, our advocates will ensure you have the financial support you need for your college journey.

Group Sessions

Peer advocates organize quarterly group sessions to offer a platform to ask questions, receive valuable training, and attend social events.

Community Building

Peer Advocates collaborate fellow students to organize community service events to make a meaningful impact on the college community and beyond.