FY27 TLS Youth in Care – College Advocate Program

The FY27 TLS Youth in Care – College Advocate Program is a grant opportunity provided by the Department of Children and Family Services. The program aims to support youth with lived experience in care by providing them with a knowledgeable and supportive network of peers and connecting them to resources they need to succeed in their post-secondary education. The program will be implemented on participating college campuses, and the provider will be responsible for recruiting, training, and supporting Peer Advocates. The Peer Advocates will provide weekly check-ins, develop personalized success plans, and make referrals for services and supports. The program's goal is to help 80% of participants complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by October of each year, 85% of participants with identified housing needs receive referrals to possible housing choices, and 60% of participants maintain eligibility for DCFS programs and financial aid each term. Key responsibilities of the provider include: • Recruiting, training, and supporting Peer Advocates • Coordinating with HOUSE Liaisons and DCFS staff • Providing weekly check-ins and developing personalized success plans for participants • Making referrals for services and supports • Maintaining a caseload of no more than 10 participants per Peer Advocate • Organizing annual FAFSA campaigns • Participating in quarterly professional development activities.