Student Transition and Academic Retention Team (START)
Note to students: The content on this page applies to students at both the Pleasant
Hill and San Ramon campuses.
START is a Foster Youth Success Initiative (FYSI) support program designed to increase
access, retention, and graduation rates for current or former foster youth at DVC.
Our goal is to provide a warm and welcoming environment, create a support network,
and empower foster youth students to make progress towards self-sufficiency, professional
success, and community leadership.
How can START Foster Youth Services help you?
Assistance with enrollment (application, orientation, assessment, and registration)
Setting up an appointment with an academic counselor to obtain an educational plan
Processing eligibility for priority registration
Expedited financial aid processing (FAFSA, California Promise Grant, CHAFEE, Missing
Information Checklist, etc.)
Access to John Burton Foundation's book fund (while supplies last)
Assistance with scholarship applications and provide letters of recommendation
Assistance with Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS) application
Direct referrals to other support programs on campus (DSS, Tutoring, Career, Transfer,
etc.)
Referrals to off-campus resources (housing, child care, transportation, food banks,
etc.)
Monthly social gatherings, workshops, and celebrations
On-campus employment and leadership opportunities
Regular check-ins with START program staff
How to apply for the START Foster Youth Services program
To apply for the START Foster Youth Services program, students must complete the following: