Honoring Champions for Foster Youth: Scagliones Receive “Making a Difference Award”

The Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund proudly honored Dr. Albert and Mitsie Scaglione with the 2025 Making a Difference Award during a heartfelt luncheon hosted by the Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund and held at Park West Foundation in Southfield on Dec. 2.

The award recognizes individuals who have made a lasting impact on the lives of Michigan youth who have experienced foster care. The Scagliones, founders of the Park West Foundation, were celebrated for their unwavering commitment to empowering foster youth through education, advocacy and community support.

"Albert and Mitsie Scaglione have created a movement of hope and opportunity for young people aging out of foster care," said Robin Lott, director of Treasury's Saving, Access and Financial Empowerment Bureau. "Their leadership and compassion are truly making a difference. It has been wonderful to see the Fostering Futures Scholarship grow every year. Not only in support, but in the number of youth we've been able to positively impact."

The event was attended by Michigan Education Trust Board members Dr. Calvin Cupidore and Andy Meisner, State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks, former Fostering Futures Scholarship recipients, Treasury staff and members of the Park West Foundation team.

Expanded Support for Foster Youth: Foster Futures Scholarship Program Updates

During the luncheon, Treasury also announced enhancements to the Fostering Futures Scholarship program:

• Increased Award Amount: Students will now receive up to $5,000 per academic year (up from $3,000), including: $2,000 for tuition and $3,000 toward other Cost of Attendance (COA) expenses.
• One-Time Application Valid for Six Years: Starting in the 2026-27 academic year, students will only need to apply once, with eligibility lasting six years before reapplication is required.
• Summer Semester Eligibility: Beginning in 2026-27, students may use their award during the summer semester, with the total annual award remaining capped at $5,000.

"These changes reflect our commitment to reducing barriers and expanding access to higher education for Michigan's foster youth," Lott said.

Year-End Giving: Make a Difference Today

As 2025 draws to a close, the Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund encourages Michiganders to consider making a tax-deductible donation to support foster youth in achieving their college dreams.

Donations can be made:

• Online at FosteringFutures-mi.com
• By mail
• Through Charitable Advisor Funds

Contributions made by Dec. 31 are eligible for 2025 state and federal tax deductions and will directly support students in the upcoming academic year.

For more information or to donate, visit Fostering Futures Scholarship or call (800) 638-4543.

About the Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund

The Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund is a charitable program-administered by the Michigan Department of Treasury-that provides college scholarships to youth who have experienced foster care in Michigan.

Since its inception in 2012, the Fostering Futures Scholarship has awarded more than $1.4 million in scholarships. The scholarships-which are funded through community donations, sponsorships and events-help cover tuition, housing, books, and other college-related expenses at Michigan degree-granting institutions.