"The CAYF is an extended family that works to develop a well rounded student into a professional working adult. They not only provide funding to assist those who may not have the means to go to college, but they stay in touch with you and connect with you during school and even after you graduate. They provide a plethora of programs to keep you grounded before you go to college like preparation courses in college algebra and college skills for success. During the college years, they have events and networking sessions to prepare you for life after college and they assist you with internships and summer programs. After you graduate, they encourage you to come and give back to future CAYF scholars by mentoring, shadowing, assisting with summer internships, teaching or being a part of the scholar selection process just to name a few. The CAYF has helped me by providing opportunities for me to give back. One of the key measurables that stood in my head when I won the scholarship was that they were committed to young people and that you should always give back. I do my best to give back by supporting CAYF events, tutoring, being a part of the scholar selection process and just being a role model to the many scholars. The CAYF was a group that believed in me even when I doubted … they kept praying for me until I completed my degree(s). They helped me in immeasurable ways to pursue my goals and now I am walking in my season because of their great investment in me!" - Elois Burnett-Thomas, University of Detroit Mercy, 2000