Our mission is to create an academic environment where every individual feels a deep sense of belonging, has equal access to opportunities, and is actively engaged in their educational journey. We are committed to fostering a culture of mutual respect and collaboration, empowering all students, faculty, and staff to reach their full potential through innovation and inclusive practices.

TVP offers a two-pronged approach to assist youth in care pursuing a 4- year degree at Eastern Illinois University (EIU), and the University of Illinois Urbana- Champaign (UIUC), with plans to expand to the remaining public universities in Illinois. 

If you're interested in receiving support through The Village Project, we encourage you to complete the Self-Referral Form. This will help us better understand your needs and determine how we can best support you.

All information you provide will remain confidential and will only be used to connect you with the resources and assistance you request.

<<<Click Here for TVP Self Referral Form >>>

WHAT WE OFFER 

The Village Project (TVP) at EIU provides academic, social, and emotional support to former foster youth by linking on-campus and community-based resources.

 Academic Support

• EIU Academic Support Center
• TRIO Student Support Services
• Writing Lab

Social Support

• Dine and Align Sessions
• EIU Campus Food Pantry
• Strong M.A.N. and Strong S.H.E. Initiative

Emotional Support

• EIU Counseling Clinic

Additional EIU Campus Resources

Office of Accessibility and Accommodations

• Direct: 217-581-3967
• Location: McAfee Gym, 1336 (Basement floor)

Office of Civil Right and Title IX

• Direct: 217-581-3967
• Location: Old Main, 1011

Counseling Center

• Direct: 217-581-3967
• Location:Human Services Building, 1st Floor

Student Health Clinic

• Direct: 217-581-3967
• Location:Human Services Building, 1st Floor

Career Services

• Direct: 217-581-3967
• Location:Human Services Building, 1301, 1st Floor

Resources for Youth in Care

• Youth in Care Bill of Rights

• Illinois State Board of Education

• Education Resources for Youth in Care

• Post-Secondary Education Program

• IllinoisJobLink.com

• DCFS Academic Internship, University Partnership and Shadow Program

• Daycare Information

• Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R)

• Education Resources for Youth in Care

• Promoting Independence and Self-Sufficiency

• Life Skills

• Find Your Future (FYF) Internship Program

• Services to LGBTQI+ Youth in Care

• YouthCare Health Plan

• Metropolitan Family Services: MOMs Plus

• Substance Abuse Services and Assistance

Contact:

John W. Blue, Ed.D.

Pronouns: He/Him/They/Them

Interim Dean of Students and 

Executive Director, Office of Belonging,

Access, and Engagement

Eastern Illinois University

Email: jwblue@eiu.edu