Helping Foster Youth Achieve Their Educational Goals
Great Expectations is a statewide initiative designed to help foster youth complete high school, gain access to a community college education, and successfully transition from the foster care system to independent living.
This program provides comprehensive support services to ensure students have the tools and guidance they need to succeed in college and beyond.
What is the Great Expectations Program?
Great Expectations is a college transition program for young adults (ages 17–24) who are or were affiliated with the Virginia foster care system. Our goals include:
- Helping young adults transition into college
- Increasing awareness about the value and availability of a college education
- Assisting students and service providers with navigating the community college system
Services We Provide
Students enrolled in Great Expectations receive personalized support, including:
- Academic advising and enrollment assistance
- Career exploration and planning
- Transfer assistance to four-year colleges
- Financial aid guidance and emergency financial assistance
- Monitoring of academic progress and access to college support services
- Referrals to campus and community resources for academic and personal needs
- Coaching and mentoring
- Tutorial referrals
- A dedicated point person to guide students until they become self-sufficient
Who is Eligible?
The program serves:
- Individuals ages 17–24 who are or were affiliated with Virginia’s foster care system
- Youth adopted from Virginia’s foster care system after age 13
- All special needs adoptions from Virginia
Get Started
Students may enter the program at any time by meeting with our College Social Worker and submitting an application.
Financial Aid Deadlines
- April 15 (for fall semester – begins in August)
- September 15 (for spring semester – begins in January)
- March 15 (for summer attendance only – begins in May)
Support Great Expectations
Donate Now: Great Expectations is funded through private donations to the Foundation. Donations cover the cost of a coach and mentor, college program development, student activities and access to a crisis fund. Please join our partners in supporting this vital program.
Helpful Links
Great Expectations Program Locations
- Middletown Campus – 173 Skirmisher Lane Middletown Virginia 22655
- Fauquier Campus – 6480 College St, Warrenton, VA 20187
- Luray Page County Center – 200 College Dr, Luray, VA 22835