Hocking College’s Fostering Talent Camp Offers Foster Youth a Real Look at College and Career Pathways

Hocking College will host a Fostering Talent Summer Camp, a week-long residential experience for students ages 15 to 17 who have been in foster or kinship care. This summer camp will take place at Hocking College's Nelsonville Campus from July 19-25.

This camp was created to give students an introduction to college life in a welcoming, supportive and hands-on way. Students participating in this camp will have the opportunity to live in on-campus dorms, eat meals provided by the college, and participate in a variety of hands-on experiences focused on career pathway discovery, life skill development, and building confidence.

"This program allows us to create a safe space where students feel supported and encouraged to start thinking about their future," said Dr. Betty Young, president of Hocking College.

Fostering Talent is tailored specifically for students with foster care or kinship experience, offering opportunities to connect with peers and mentors who understand their journey. The program focuses on creating a sense of belonging while helping students better understand the resources and support available to them as they consider their next steps after high school.

As one of the first colleges in Ohio to receive the Ohio Reach Postsecondary Designation, Hocking College has established several support services for students who have been in foster or kinship care. These support services include, but are not limited to, assistance with completing the financial aid application process, assistance with finding on-campus housing, and support throughout their college career.

The camp is part of a larger partnership that Hocking is involved with, in relation to Ohio Reach. Ohio Reach is a statewide initiative that aims to increase access to higher education for students who have been in foster care and/or kinship care.

There is no cost associated with attending this camp after all applicable financial aid is applied, with Hocking covering any remaining costs. Please note that housing costs are not included and are the responsibility of the student.

Space is limited.

For additional information or questions about the Fostering Talent Summer Camp, or to register, please visit https://www.hocking.edu/fosteringtalent or call 740-753-7050.