JJC Students Grateful for Support From Foundation, Community

The Joliet Junior College Foundation is encouraging community members, as they are able, to offer a monetary gift to support students amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

During these times of uncertainty, students are looking to the JJC Foundation to assist with food and household items, technology to finish remote classes this semester, and even tuition assistance. Many students' jobs will be affected by this crisis, creating unforeseen challenges that will affect their academic goals. Contributions to the Student Emergency Fund can provide life-changing assistance through timely financial help.

As one student explained, the assistance they received came at a stressful and scary time.

“With the donations forwarded to me during this crisis, I was able to sustain my family while having a weight and worry loaded off of my shoulders. Thank you so much to all that help and for the donations made. It means more than you will ever know!”

Another student shared the pandemic has impacted their ability to afford groceries.

“Out of everything I’ve had to overcome in my journey, one battle I never thought I’d be fighting is food insecurity. With help from the JJC Student Emergency Fund, this is one less thing I need to worry about so I can focus on my studies.”

Dean of Student Success Angie Kaysen-Luzbetak manages the college’s Student Emergency Fund. She said the service not only links students to critical resources, but allows caring individuals to influence student success. When informed of a student’s situation, she said it’s important to connect with them on a human level, identify the need for any additional resources, and to let them know JJC cares.

“When a student reaches out to us we automatically become part of their team,” Kaysen-Luzbetak said.

So far in 2020, contributions to the JJC Student Emergency Fund have totaled nearly $4,500, which the Foundation distributes to students in need.

“During this uncertain time we are pleased that donors are willing to earmark their gifts to our Student Emergency Fund knowing that our students have needs in addition to scholarships, such as food and technology support,” said Kristi Mulvey, executive director of institutional advancement and executive director of the JJC Foundation.

With a donation to the Student Emergency Fund, JJC students will receive peace of mind and stay on the path to academic success. Donations can be made at www.jjc.edu/givetojjc.

For media inquiries, contact Communications and Media Coordinator Scott Harvey at sharvey@jjc.edu.