PROFS

Providing Resources and Opportunities for Future Standouts

Providing Resources and Opportunities for Future Standouts

Kutztown University has partnered with ChildPromise, Inc. to present a one-of-a-kind support program for students who are current or former members of the foster care system or students who are homeless/unaccompanied youth. To show dedication to successful students in foster care, PROFS provides college access programs, such as college prep and financial knowledge workshops, for high school students and connects Kutztown University students to the campus resources that will help them succeed.

Eligible students who attend Kutztown University have the opportunity to become active members of the PROFS program. Interested students should submit a completed PROFS application with supporting documents no later than the first Monday in August for the fall semester and no later than the first Monday in December for the spring semester.

The PROFS program encourages students to reach their potential and be a positive example for others who have also gone through the system.

Any Kutztown University student who has been in the foster care system is invited to fill out the PROFS application. Any questions can be directed to PROFS@Kutztown.edu. 

  • Goals & Core Values of the PROFS Program

    GOALS:

    • Challenge the stigma and often false perceptions surrounding foster care

    • Promote a sense of community and belonging

    • Facilitate the growth and learning of new skills

    • Enrich the lives of students in need

    • Provide resources and supports to a population that is underrepresented and underserved

    CORE VALUES:

    • Resilience

    • Empathy

    • Support

    • Community

    • Respect

  • Program Requirements

    Requirements:

    • Students must maintain a 2.0 GPA each semester to receive an end of semester stipend.
    • Students must maintain good student conduct at KU.
    • Students must attend bi-weekly meetings with a Success Coach (unless coach/student see a need for weekly meetings; i.e., new students). Meetings can be scheduled here. (link coming soon)
    • Students must meet with the PROFS Program Director once a month. Meetings can be scheduled here. (link coming soon)
    • Students must attend 1 community gathering, excursion, or workshop of their choice per semester.  PROFS will provide transportation to and from all activities.
    • Students must attend the monthly Family Dinner. The dinners are scheduled for the fourth Friday of each month.
    • Students must attend the Child Promise Gala (if held, TBD)

    Please Note:

    If no events are attended, the student will be dismissed for the academic year and may reapply the following school year.

    Students are not mandated to be in the PROFS program. Students may leave the program at any time without penalty.

  • Program Benefits

    Benefits:

    • Book Stipend, if you qualify
      • Qualification:
        • Financial Aid refund of $1500 or less
    • $500 Semesterly Stipend, if you qualify
      • Qualification:
        • GPA must be above 2.0 AND must be in good conduct with the University
    • Free on-campus housing during the summer and winter breaks, if you qualify
      • Qualification:
        • MUST live on campus during the fall and spring semester AND take classes or have a job (at least 1 day a week) during the summer break.
    • Opportunity to apply for study abroad scholarship
    • Opportunity for GPA incentive trip
      • Qualification:
        • Must maintain a 3.0 GPA or above
  • Spring 2023 Calendar of Events

    Family Dinners, 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm (attendance is mandatory):

    • January 27, 2023 - Kutztown Tavern
    • February 24, 2023 - MSU 250
    • March 31, 2023 - MSU 250
    • April 21, 2023 - MSU 250

    Community Gatherings/Excursions/Workshops

    MUST attend at least one. Must sign up one week in advance and take a picture of yourself at the event and send to one of the PROFS GA's as proof of attendance.

    • Monday, February 6: 7-8 pm - “Your Voice Is Your Power! Let It Be Heard.” in Boehm 145. National Empowerment Speaker Carlos Ojeda, Jr., and CoolSpeak Founder

    • Monday, February 13: 8:30 am - 10 am – Grab and Go Community Breakfast, PROFS Office

    • Thursday, February 23: 7 pm -9 pm- Stepping Back into Black History, South Dining, Room 1

    • Saturday, February 25: 6 pm Movie Premiere “Ghost in House” Colonial Theatre, Phoenixville, PA (Transportation Provided- must sign up in advance)

    • Monday, March 20: 8:30 am - 10 am – Grab and Go Community Breakfast, PROFS Office

    • Thursday, March 9: 7:30 pm- KU Presents The Kingdom Choir, Gospel Choir from London, England-Performed at the wedding of Prince Harry to Megan Markle

    • Tuesday, April 4: 11 am-1 pm Grab and Go Community Lunch, PROFS Office

    • Wednesday, April 19: 7:30 pm- KU Presents Laura Benanti, Tony award winner, singer, and actress
    • Meet The Staff

      Ms. , Interim Vice President Enrollment Management & Student Affairs

      Ms. , Director of University Well-being & Special Projects

      Ms. , Assistant Dean of Students

      Ms. , Administrative Assistant

      Ms. , Graduate Assistant

      Ms. , Graduate Assistant

    PROFS Scholarship Fund – Providing Resources and Opportunities for Future Stand Outs (PROFS)

    A joint effort between Kutztown University and ChildPromise which assists young adults who have been part of the foster care system