FAFSA Nights Return to Midland County, Helping Students Access Postsecondary Opportunities

The Midland Area Career & College Access Network, a proud initiative of the Midland Area Community Foundation, will host a series of FAFSA Nights this fall and winter to help students and families complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). These free, drop-in sessions are open to all residents of Midland County and aim to remove barriers to access to postsecondary education by providing personalized, one-on-one guidance from college access professionals.

The FAFSA Nights series will take place at several locations throughout the county to ensure accessibility for all students and families:

• November 12: Meridian Early College High School (6–8 p.m.)
• November 13: Delta College Downtown Midland Campus, co-hosted by H.H. Dow and Midland High Schools (5:30–7 p.m.)
• December 17: West Midland Family Center (5:30–7 p.m.)
• January 8: Coleman Area Library, co-hosted by Coleman Jr./Sr. High School (6–8 p.m.)
• January 15: Grace A. Dow Memorial Library Community Room (5:30–7:30 p.m.)

Completing the FAFSA opens the door to federal and state grants, scholarships, and other forms of aid that make college more accessible. Even a modest increase in FAFSA completion rates can lead to significant gains in college enrollment and workforce readiness for Midland County students.

“Every person should have the opportunity to pursue education or training beyond high school without financial barriers standing in the way,” said Sharon Mortensen, President & CEO of the Midland Area Community Foundation. “FAFSA Nights make that possible by providing support in completing the FAFSA and doing this at local schools and community spaces. This is what building a community of choice looks like—ensuring access to opportunity is available for everyone.”

The Midland Area Career and College Access Network collaborates with schools, colleges, nonprofits, and employers to ensure that every resident of Midland County has a clear path to postsecondary success. The Network’s successes include supporting high school counselors, aligning local workforce needs with career training, and enhancing college persistence and completion rates through partnerships and the sharing of data.

“Postsecondary education is about more than a degree. It’s about helping every person in Midland County reach their full potential,” said Mortensen. “Whether that means a two-year degree, a certificate, an apprenticeship, or a four-year university, our goal is to help community members see possibilities and take the next step toward their future.”

These events are free and open to all students and families in Midland County, including recent graduates, adult learners, and anyone beginning or returning to college. Attendees are encouraged to bring the necessary documentation to complete their FAFSA on-site. A checklist is available by accessing michigan.gov/mistudentaid/students-families/fafsa-resources/fafsa-checklist.

To learn more about the Midland Area Career & College Access Network or upcoming FAFSA Nights, visit midlandfdn.org/initiative/ccan or email ksovis@midlandfoundation.org.