Other Financial OpportunitiesFrom the Gateways Scholarship Program to the Great START Wage Supplement Program, Gateways to Opportunity is giving Illinois early care and education, school-age, and youth professional’s access to financial support. Through the following other resources, early care and education professionals are able to pursue coursework and opportunities for professional development. Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC)The ISAC offers a comprehensive array of programs designed specifically for college-bound students and their families—including state and federal grants, scholarships, loans, and college prepaid tuition programs. College Zone, the trusted source for college information, is ISAC’s one-stop approach to outreach. For more information on ISAC, pick up brochures at Outreach Centers located at community college campuses throughout the state, phone (800) 899-ISAC (4722), or visit www.collegezone.com. Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) ServicesProfessional Development Funds Each CCR&R agency receives funds from the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) to support professional development in early care and education. Family childcare providers, childcare center staff, directors, and childcare associations are eligible to apply for these funds. Professional Development Funds may be applied toward tuition, in-service training, and/or conferences related to early care and education or management. Priority is given to programs funded by IDHS, with greater priority given to those with 25% or more of their enrollment consisting of IDHS-funded children. All individuals are encouraged to apply. Quality Counts Grants Program The Quality Counts Grants Program, funded by IDHS and administered locally by each of the 17 CCR&Rs, has been created to improve quality and/or increase the capacity of early care and education programs in Illinois. Funds are awarded across the state of Illinois, with a percentage of these funds targeted for infant-toddler care quality and/or capacity activities. For more information or an application, please contact your local CCR&R. Credential and Accreditation Funds Credential and Accreditation Funds may be available through your local CCR&R. These funds are designed to help childcare programs achieve accreditation and to help individuals pursue a childcare credential. Funds may be used for many activities, including training, mentoring, consultations, and credential and accreditation fees. Applications for Credential and Accreditation Funds are available at your local CCR&R. Priority is given to applicants of programs serving 25% or more of publicly funded children. Learn more about your local CCR&Rs.
Funding Links
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