Summer Program

05/13/25 - Submissions for Summer 2025 Are Now Closed.

Submissions for Summer 2026 will open in February 2026.
Please check our website and portal for other upcoming opportunities.


C.O.R.E. (Connecting Opportunities and Resources through Education)

 A summer residential resource support program for students with lived experience in either foster care or homelessness. 

  

Programming Dates:                June 15-20th             June 22-27th             July 13-18th               July 20-25th

CORE Camp                                A                                  B                                  C                                     D

Program Overview

This 1-week residential program is designed for 10-15 high school students (sophomores, juniors, and seniors) who have lived experience in foster care or homelessness with strong interest in preparing for college. The goal is to equip students with essential life skills, self- awareness, and support systems necessary to succeed in college, while providing valuable resources related to foster care and homelessness support.

Program Objective

To recruit high school-aged students currently assisted by foster care agencies in Texas for a one-week residential program designed to support their interests in attending college. The program aims to provide guidance, resources, and exposure to higher education opportunities while preparing students for a successful college journey.

Eligibility Criteria:

 

  • Age: Students must be high school-aged, between the ages of 16 and 18.

 

  • Foster Care Status: Applicants must be currently under the care or support of a recognized foster care agency within the state of Texas.

 

  • Academic Standing: Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 (or a grade point average deemed acceptable by program administrators).

 

  • Interest in Higher Education: Students should express an interest in pursuing post-secondary education in Texas, demonstrated through a personal statement or letter of recommendation from a teacher or foster care worker.

 

  • Commitment to Participation: Applicants must be willing to commit to attending the full week of the residential program.

Application Process

The online form will be developed to collect personal information, academic details, and the student’s motivation for attending college. Key sections will include:

  • Full name, date of birth, and contact information
  • Academic transcript or GPA information
  • Statement of interest (500 words or less) explaining why the student is interested in attending college and how the program will benefit them
  • A letter of recommendation from a foster care worker or school counselor
  • Parent or guardian consent (if applicable)
  • Agreement to program terms and conditions
A clear deadline (e.g., June 1st, 2025) will be established for all applications to be submitted, with a follow-up reminder one week before.
A review committee consisting of program staff and representatives from foster care agencies will evaluate applications based on eligibility, personal statements, academic standing, and demonstrated interest in college. A set number of applicants (e.g., 50 students) will be selected for the program.
Accepted students will receive an email and physical letter confirming their acceptance, along with details about program dates, what to bring, and pre-arrival instructions.

C.O.R.E Camp Application

Thank you for your interest in the Emerging Mavericks C.O.R.E Camp (Connecting Opportunities and Resources in Education) Residential Program!

05/13/25 - Submissions for Summer 2025 Are Now Closed.

Submissions for Summer 2026 will open in February 2026.
Please check our website and portal for other upcoming opportunities.