START Program and Services

START offers a variety of services for incoming and current DVC foster youth students:

Hands on assistance with steps to enroll

  • Application, orientation, assessment, educational plan
  • Priority registration
  • Resolution of residency issues

Access to financial resources

  • Individualized and expedited financial aid processing (FAFSA, BOG, CHAFEE, Missing Information Checklist, etc.)
  • John Burton Foundation Program (book fund, while supplies last)
  • Scholarship referrals and completion of letters of recommendation

Referrals to other resources

  • On-campus connections - EOPS, DSS, tutoring, career and transfer services, counseling, etc.
  • Off-campus referrals - housing, childcare, transportation, food banks, etc.

Academic, social, and community building and enrichment

  • Dedicated START counselor
  • Monthly social gatherings, workshops, celebrations
  • On-campus employment and leadership opportunities
  • Regular check-ins with START staff