WCC REACH Program
Supporting the success of students with experience in foster care to thrive in college and beyond.
What is REACH?
REACH is a student success coaching program at Washtenaw Community College (WCC) designed to support students who have experienced foster care.
We understand that college can be exciting—and overwhelming. REACH exists so students don’t have to navigate it alone.
Students in REACH receive individualized support, connections to campus and community resources, and advocacy to help reduce barriers and support academic and personal success.
What We Do
REACH provides whole-student support, tailored to each student’s needs and goals.
- One-on-one success coaching
- Support navigating financial aid, scholarships, campus services and foster care–related resources
- Help with academic supports and life skills
- Connection to campus and valuable resources such as mentoring, and social support
- Personalized support during transitions (starting college, changing programs, or leaving college)
- Access to a pantry stocked with snacks, personal care and household items, and school supplies
- Care packages and goodies throughout the year, especially for holidays
- Opportunities to participate in events, workshops, and community-building activities
What students say:
You were there for me during some of the hardest moments in my life when I didn’t
have anyone else to talk to or lean on. You really listened, and that meant the world
to me. Your support helped me feel like I wasn’t alone, and I carry that with me even
now. Thank you for everything you gave to all of us in REACH. You made a lasting impact,
and I’ll always appreciate you for that.
Kathy was really helpful with getting me hooked up with funds that I was eligible
to receive . During my first semester I originally thought I had stable housing; however,
things fell through and I went homeless twice in that semester. During that time REACH
and Kathy was there for me the entire time. Through a fellow REACH member I was able
to find a landlord, and with Kathy vouching for me; I finally had truly stable housing
for the first time in my adult life. From there I had many of my basic needs met,
I had Kathy as almost my campus mom, and REACH as my campus Family. The REACH program
helped me form the tools to be a well-rounded student, the tools to deal with my prior
traumas, and how to manage them in a healthy manner. The program has been instrumental
in my personal development and I don’t know who I would be or where I would be. I
am extremely thankful and appreciative for REACH.
I feel incredibly lucky to have met you during such a difficult time in my life. You
helped guide me when I couldn’t see my own path, and I will never forget that. I’m
grateful for you in every way. Meeting you was one of the biggest blessings in my
life. I was just a young girl, unsure of who I was or where I was going and you helped
me find my direction when I couldn’t see it myself. I’m really proud of where I am
now, and so much of that is thanks to your guidance.
Who Can Participate?
REACH is available to prospective or enrolled WCC students who have experience in foster care and meet Youth in Transition (YIT) eligibility.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, reach out—we’re happy to talk.
Please contact Kathy, the REACH Success Coach to get connected.
Kathy Stewart, LMSW
Success Coach | REACH Program
Washtenaw Community College
(734) 231-9064 | kstewar3@wccnet.edu
Supporting the success of students with experience in foster care
The REACH Program is fully funded through a grant from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). There is no cost to participate