FAME Awarded College Access Challenge Grant
Thursday, August 26, 2010
9:14 AM
The Finance Authority of Maine (FAME) was recently notified by the U.S. Department of Education that Maine has been awarded a $1.5 million College Access Challenge Grant for fiscal year 2011. Available monies are to be used by states on efforts to increase college access and success among underserved student populations.
In Maine, the grant will be known as the Maine College Access Challenge Grant (MCACG) Program and will be administered by FAME. The grant will enable FAME to expand its outreach efforts to help students achieve their postsecondary goals. Funds will be used to provide information and outreach to Maine students and families regarding financial aid, financial education, and debt management.
“FAME is pleased to announce the availability of grant funds for the MCACG Program,” stated Beth Bordowitz, Chief Executive Officer of FAME. “These much-needed funds will help us strengthen our outreach and financial education efforts to help Maine students and families achieve their postsecondary education goals.”
The FAME outreach team includes veteran financial aid professionals who not only work with high schools but also coordinate with middle and elementary schools, as well as adult education centers, to reach students and parents. The free services provided are available to all Maine citizens, regardless of income.
MCACG is part of a federal program designed to significantly increase the number of underrepresented students who enter and remain in postsecondary education. To accomplish this purpose, MCACG will focus on three key components: (1) college access and completion services and programs; (2) competitive grants to organizations providing college access and/or completion services or programs; and (3) scholarships for low-income students to enroll in early college courses.
Funding for grants will be awarded on a competitive basis to eligible non-profit organizations. Proposals should support the overarching goal of increasing the number of students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education, with a focus on preparation, aspiration and success. The application deadline is September 24, 2010.
Eligibility and application information are available on FAME’s Web site. Questions about MCACG or the application process should be directed to adostie@famemaine.com.