Ever wondered how the United States can better address the homelessness crisis? This episode of "Make the Leap" promises eye-opening insights as we welcome Kelsey Fox, the dedicated Director of Housing and Community Solutions at the United Way in Delaware County, Ohio. Kelsey guides us through her journey from public relations to becoming a passionate advocate for housing stability, sharing inspiring stories and impactful initiatives like the Delaware County Housing Alliance and a young adult transitional living program. Hear firsthand about the urgent need for emergency shelters and transitional housing, as well as the poignant accounts of those living on society’s margins, including an emancipated youth forced to live in his car.

As we navigate the complexities of housing assistance programs, Kelsey sheds light on the hurdles low-income individuals face, from cyclical voucher availability to overwhelming eligibility criteria. We challenge societal stereotypes about homelessness, particularly focusing on single mothers and children, and discuss the role of communities in promoting affordable housing through campaigns like YIMBY. The episode also tackles systemic issues, such as the impact of racism on housing insecurity and the importance of creating walkable, affordable communities. Join us for a thorough exploration of how we can equip individuals and communities with the resources to navigate housing crises and foster thoughtful, inclusive development.

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Curious about how a debt-free education could transform the lives of foster children? In this episode of "Make the Leap," Brad Constant, George Grayeb, and Kristen Beal introduce the Ross Last-Dollar Grant for Foster Children, a last-dollar grant initiative that ensures foster children can attend Ross without tuition fees or student debt. Listen as George shares eye-opening statistics about the financial challenges faced by foster children and explains how this program seeks to mitigate those obstacles, providing not just financial relief but also academic support and tutoring. Ross's commitment to students extends beyond graduation, aiming to equip them with the tools they need to succeed in life.

We also broaden the conversation to address the societal responsibility we all share in supporting foster children. Kristen previews future discussions with experts who will delve into critical topics like trauma-informed care, housing instability, and food insecurities. Stay tuned for an insightful future episode featuring Kelsey Fox from United Way of Delaware County, Ohio, who will share her expertise on homelessness and transitional housing. Don't miss this compelling episode about the power of community and education to change lives.

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What if the shortage of foster homes could be solved by one inspiring story? Join us as we tackle the foster care crisis, sharing the compelling journey of Beth Dock-Henschen. Learn how a close friend's impact led Beth to open her heart and home to foster children. Her experiences reveal the complexities and emotional challenges of foster parenting, while also highlighting the profound rewards.

Beth's candid reflections underscore the perseverance and support required to make a difference. We dive deep into the systemic issues of frequent moves and the critical need for more foster parents in states like Georgia, Tennessee, Texas, Indiana, and California. Beth's story brings to light the harsh realities foster children face and the resilience required to provide a loving, stable environment amidst these challenges.

As we explore the broader foster care landscape, we discuss the ideal of reuniting children with their families, the financial and training constraints on foster parents, and the joys of witnessing a child's growth. Our conversation emphasizes the urgent need for better support systems, adequate compensation, and community involvement. Don't miss our call to action and a preview of our next episode focused on the Ross Foster Care Program. Tune in and discover how you can make a difference.

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How do free and charitable medical clinics manage to provide essential healthcare services to millions of Americans with little to no federal or state funding? Join us on this episode of Make the Leap as we uncover the invaluable role these clinics play in our healthcare system. With special guest Mary Lewis, CEO of the Gary Bernstein Community Health Clinic in Pontiac, Michigan, we challenge misconceptions and explore the real stories behind those who rely on these crucial services. Mary shares her personal journey from struggling college student to leading a clinic that offers everything from primary care to specialized services.

You'll gain a deeper understanding of the often-overlooked challenges faced by high-risk populations, even those with Medicaid and Medicare coverage. We delve into the comprehensive care model adopted by Mary’s clinic, designed to minimize the need for patients to take multiple days off work. By fostering community support and relying on volunteers, the clinic sustains its mission to serve the underserved. Moreover, we discuss how Ross students can get involved through internships and volunteer opportunities, contributing to a collective effort to address healthcare disparities. Tune in for an enlightening conversation on healthcare access, advocacy, and the power of community-driven solutions.

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How has the value of the Pell Grant evolved from a crucial lifeline to a mere drop in the bucket when it comes to covering today's skyrocketing tuition fees? Join us on Make the Leap as we uncover the historical shifts and present-day challenges faced by low-income students navigating the financial aid landscape. We'll take you back to 1972, when the Pell Grant was introduced, and contrast its purchasing power then versus now. Through real-life examples from Michigan's public and private colleges, we illustrate how the gap between financial aid and actual tuition has widened, leaving students with overwhelming financial burdens.

Ever wondered why the financial aid process feels like an uphill battle for so many? This episode dives deep into the systemic hurdles that underrepresented groups face, from complex FAFSA requirements to the often inaccessible documentation needed for tax filings. We emphasize the critical role of financial aid administrators and the importance of exercising professional judgment to foster a more empathetic and comprehensive approach. By addressing these multifaceted challenges, we advocate for policies that genuinely understand and alleviate the struggles of low-income students.

Technology has the potential to revolutionize the student financial aid experience, but is it a double-edged sword? We explore how digital tools can both simplify and complicate the process, offering self-paced resources and targeted support while also increasing complexity. This episode sheds light on the recent overhaul of FAFSA aimed at simplification and discusses the paradox of choice in educational decision-making. From exploring the shift from grants to loans to personal anecdotes highlighting the financial instability caused by student debt, we offer a compelling discussion on the evolving financial aid landscape. Tune in for insights that could change the way we support our future scholars.

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Can education truly be a vehicle for social change and equity? Join us on "Make the Leap" as we explore this compelling question with Ronnese McKinney, a fervent advocate for student success and social mobility. Ronnese shares her personal journey and stresses the vital need to view education as a public good, not just a commodity. We'll discuss the historical context of the GI Bill and its impact on societal views about education, while highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized groups in accessing quality education and securing well-paying jobs. Brad, Kristen and George lend their voices to this essential conversation, posing critical questions about how we can address and mitigate these disparities.

Our discussion broadens as we delve into a multifaceted approach to breaking the cycle of poverty through education. We emphasize the importance of holistic and inclusive learning that starts early, even from preschool, to better prepare students for college and careers. Students from low-income backgrounds often face unique barriers, and by focusing on personal empowerment and nurturing a belief in their potential, we can help them envision a brighter future. The conversation sheds light on the need to start career conversations early and aims to create a supportive environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed.

In the final chapter, we tackle the complex issue of equal access to quality education and the role of parental support in underserved communities. We discuss how systemic inequalities and logistical barriers, like transportation, can impede access to good schools. While emphasizing the importance of personalized learning and using available resources, we also debate the limitations of relying solely on parents to guide their children's education. Instead, we advocate for targeted support within schools, such as small class sizes and one-on-one tutoring, to level the playing field and ensure every child, regardless of background, has a fair chance at success. Join us for this thought-provoking episode and discover the steps we can take towards a more equitable education system.

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Can unequal access to technology create insurmountable barriers for low-income students, further widening the socioeconomic divide? Join hosts Brad Constant and George Grayeb on Make the Leap as we tackle this pressing issue head-on. In this episode, we explore the profound impact of the digital divide on low-income students, particularly in online and hybrid learning environments. With special guest Dr. Rhonda Baughman from Ross College Online, we dive into the challenges these students face, from the lack of reliable internet to the absence of functional devices, and how these hurdles limit their educational experiences and future prospects.

Dr. Baughman brings her valuable perspective as an online English and literature instructor, sharing her proactive approaches to create a supportive and equitable learning atmosphere. Through subtle prompts in assignments and open communication, she builds trust with her students, uncovering underlying issues that impact their academic performance. The discussion emphasizes the importance of rapid, consistent communication and a non-judgmental, collaborative environment where students can thrive despite challenging home environments.

As we look toward the future, we discuss the evolving role of technology in education and the critical need to equip students with essential digital skills. Dr. Baughman and our hosts address the importance of institutions like Ross College in bridging the digital divide through resources, training, and personalized support. The conversation concludes with reflections on the potential benefits of hybrid learning models and a preview of our next episode on education for social change. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on how we can all contribute to creating a more equitable digital learning landscape.

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Can financial stress and limited resources turn homes into battlegrounds for those already struggling to make ends meet? Listen as we unravel the complex web linking poverty, domestic violence, and health. We spotlight the heightened risks faced by women in disadvantaged groups and dissect how economic disparities in relationships can be weaponized by abusers. Kristen Beal, our insightful guest, delves into the multifaceted forms of abuse and the compounded hurdles marginalized individuals encounter when seeking help. Our discussion reveals the stark power dynamics at play in poorer communities and the far-reaching impacts on women's health and economic stability.

In our deep dive into support services, we explore the crucial role of culturally competent assistance—from crisis hotlines and emergency shelters to legal aid and healthcare. We underscore the specific vulnerabilities of immigrants and low-income families, shedding light on innovative solutions like discreet mobile apps and the integration of local resources with national hotlines. The conversation pivots to the urgent need for accessible resources, job opportunities for women, and the importance of paid leave. We wrap up by addressing the digital divide in education, proposing practical strategies to ensure equitable access to technology for all students. This episode is a must-listen for anyone committed to understanding and addressing the multifaceted challenges of domestic violence in impoverished communities.

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