EmpowerEd

The purpose of the EmpowerEd program is to provide higher education funding and support to individuals who experienced homelessness and were identified as being McKinney-Vento eligible by designated school personnel while enrolled in a Colorado high school.

Amount

This program ensures that after the application of scholarships, grants and other financial aid awards have been applied, a student's full cost of attendance will be covered each school year. The cost of attendance includes tuition and fees, housing, food, books, transportation and personal education-related expenses.

Eligibility Requirements

• Identified by designated school personnel as a homeless child or youth pursuant to the Federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act while residing in Colorado anytime between the start of 9th grade and end of 12th grade.
• Be at least 17 years of age, and not yet 27 years old.
• A current Colorado resident
• Completed FAFSA or CASFA
• Been accepted into an in-state , public institution of higher education, local district college, or area technical college
• Enrolled in courses leading towards your FIRST  bachelor’s degree, associate degree or certificate of completion at an accredited institution of higher education
  • Cannot be used to pursue second degree of the same type
• Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress each semester

Action Items

• Some eligible students may be asked to provide documentation of McKinney-Vento liaison's decision
• Complete the EmpowerEd Application

If you believe you meet the eligibility criteria and need additional assistance, please email us for direct advising.