FAME Awarded College Access Challenge Grant

On August 22, 2008, the U.S. Department of Education officially notified FAME that it has been awarded funds through the College Access Challenge Grant.  The grant will enable FAME to expand its outreach efforts to help students achieve their postsecondary goals.  The funds--$330,000 per year over two years--will be used to provide information and outreach to Maine students and families regarding financial aid, financial literacy, and debt management.

The grant was established as part of the College Cost Reduction and Access Act, which President Bush signed into law on September 27, 2007.  Available monies are to be used by states on efforts to increase college access and success among underserved student populations.

FAME’s plans for the grant money include:  providing information about the benefits of a college education, college opportunities, and college and career planning; informing students and families about financial aid options for college, financial literacy, and debt management; performing outreach activities for students at risk of not continuing their education; assisting families in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA form); and offering professional development for guidance counselors at middle and high schools and financial aid administrators and college admissions counselors at colleges.

FAME already has expanded its current outreach efforts by recently hiring two veteran financial aid professionals who will not only work with high schools but also will coordinate with middle and elementary schools and adult education centers to reach students and parents. The services provided will be available to all Maine citizens, regardless of income.