JJ Wright Scholarship
A student on campus walking towards the sunset with a backpack slung over one shoulder

Removing Barriers. Opening Doors. Changing Futures.

John & Judy Wright Scholarship

Helping youth with experience in the foster care system pursue higher education.

Most young adults step into college with a safety net. Students who age out of foster care often step out alone.

The John and Judy Wright Scholarship helps bridge that gap — providing practical, life-changing financial support for students determined to continue their education.

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The Challenge

Why This Scholarship Exists

Only 3% of foster alumni complete a four-year degree — not because they lack talent or drive, but because the system was not built for them.

Students who age out of foster care face:

  • No consistent family support
  • Housing and food insecurity
  • Multiple school placements
  • Higher rates of chronic health issues
  • Financial pressure with no safety net

This scholarship supports these students with tuition, housing, laptops, books, and essential costs so they can stay enrolled and succeed.

Learn More
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How It Works

Support for Students. Clarity for Counselors. Confidence for Donors.

Students

If you've been in foster care and want to attend college, trade school, or another post-secondary program, you may qualify.

We provide financial support:

  • Tuition & fees
  • Room & board
  • Books & supplies
  • Laptops & technology
How to Apply

Counselors & Advisors

You play a critical role in guiding students toward opportunities. We've made the application process simple and transparent.

  • Eligibility summary
  • Application & instructions
  • Important deadlines
  • Contact for questions
Application Details

Donors

Every dollar donated goes directly to students. Thanks to our partnership with Ennis Center for Children, administrative costs do not come out of your gift.

Add "JJW Scholarship" in the description field. Invest in resilience, possibility, and a student's future.

Donate

Our Story

Meet the Wrights

For twelve years, John and Judy Wright fostered 55 children, all under the age of three. Their work was described as "life-saving for some," and recognized across the state of Michigan.

  • Honorable Joan E. Young Award for Commitment to Children Oakland County Board of Commissioners · 2012
  • Oakland County Foster Parents of the Year Oakland County Board of Commissioners · 2012
  • Michigan Foster Parents of the Year Michigan Supreme Court · 2012
  • John and Judy Wright Scholarship for Foster Children Ennis Center for Children

"Through unrelenting care, love, and faith, the Wrights have saved the lives of many children."

— Oakland County Board of Commissioners, Proclamation (March 21, 2013)

Read Their Story
John and Judy Wright with foster Baby J

Our Partner

Ennis Center for Children

For more than 39 years, Ennis Center for Children has supported over 3,500 Michigan children and families annually. Their staff guide youth toward safety, stability, and long-term success.

They process all scholarship donations and applications — ensuring transparency, accountability, and proper distribution of funds.

About Our Partnership
Collage of Ennis Center for Children activities and staff with families

Your Impact Is Immediate

Support the Scholarship

When you donate, you help remove the barriers that prevent foster youth from attending or completing school. Every contribution — big or small — helps a student pursue higher education with dignity, stability, and hope.

Become a Donor

Get in Touch

Questions?

Have questions? Need help with the application process? Want to learn more about supporting this scholarship?

The Ennis Center for Children manages all inquiries, applications, and donations for the John and Judy Wright Scholarship.

Contact Ennis Center Visit Ennis Center