Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund to host annual spring fundraising dinner in Kalamazoo

The Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund, managed by the Michigan Department of Treasury, will host its annual spring fundraising dinner next month to support Michigan’s foster youth in pursuing their college dreams.

The event, set for Friday, April 11 from 5:30-9:30 p.m., at the Radisson Plaza Hotel in Kalamazoo, will bring together community leaders, advocates and donors for an evening of dining, networking and inspiration, with all proceeds funding scholarships for students who have experienced foster care.

With more than 9.500 youth currently in Michigan’s foster care system and fewer than 10% of former foster youth nationwide enrolling in college after high school, the Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund answers a critical need.

The upcoming fundraising dinner in Kalamazoo provides an opportunity for the community to help make a difference.

“Supporting this scholarship fund is about more than just covering tuition. It’s about giving foster youth the confidence and opportunity to pursue their dreams,” said Diane Brewer, executive director of the Michigan Education Trust (MET) at the Department ot Treasury. “Every donation helps open doors, create possibilities, and build a future where these students can thrive.”

All proceeds from the event will go directly toward scholarships for students who have experienced foster care, helping them cover essential costs such as tuition, housing, books and other critical college expenses. Many of these students have overcome extraordinary obstacles, and with the right financial support, they can achieve their academic and career goals.

The event is made possible thanks to the generosity of sponsors and supporters. Premier sponsors include the Michigan Education Savings Program (MESP), Park West Foundation and Western Michigan University’s Seita Scholars Program. Fellowship sponsors such as Ferris State University and Güd Marketing continue to show their commitment to this important cause. Supporting sponsors include Catalis and the Grand Rapids Griffins, while iHeartMedia, the Michigan Association of Broadcasters and WGVU are providing media support.

The Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund is dedicated to ensuring that foster youth in Michigan have access to the educational opportunities they deserve. By coming together in Kalamazoo, the community can help open doors for these students and provide them with the resources they need to succeed. Every contribution—big or small—can help change a life and create a brighter future.

Since its inception in 2012, the Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund has awarded over $1.4 million in scholarships, directly impacting the lives of hundreds of students across the state and helping them succeed at Michigan's degree-granting colleges and universities.

The fundraising dinners each year also present an opportunity to highlight the achievements of past scholarship recipients. One such inspiring individual in 2024 was Rebecca Yager, a mid-Michigan woman whose journey represents the profound impact of community support and educational opportunities on the lives of foster youth.

“Receiving this scholarship has been truly life-changing,” Yager said, “It’s not just about financial assistance—it’s about knowing that someone believes in my potential. I encourage everyone to give, not just for the tax benefits, but to help foster youth access the opportunities they need to succeed.”

The cost to attend the event is $100 per person or $800 for a table of eight, and tickets are available for purchase by the public. For more information, to purchase tickets or to explore sponsorship opportunities, please visit Fostering Futures Scholarship Event or contact the event organizers at 1-800-638-4543 or TreasMET@Michigan.gov.

For those unable to attend the event, there are still ways to support Michigan’s foster youth. Donations can be made securely online via credit card or by mailing a check along with the Fostering Futures Scholarship Contribution Form, making it payable to the State of Michigan – Fostering Futures Scholarship, PO Box 30198, Lansing, MI 48909. Contributions made by December 31 are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170(c), ensuring that every gift can make a lasting impact.