FAFSA opening date change can HELP your organization help students!

We talked about this major change with the FAFSA (FREE Application for Federal Student Aid)  in a  previous post. As we have reported on this blog several months ago, the FAFSA opening day has changed from January 1st of a high school student's senior year to October 1st of that same high school student's senior year. That's 3 months earlier than in years past (and actually 6 months earlier than how families 20 years ago filled out the FAFSA)

The reason for this is so that new soon-to-be college students who are applying in the fall can almost immediately compare their options, especially if the final decision comes down to finances. Check our graphic at the bottom of this post so you can visualize how, in order to receive an official financial aid award, a student needs to have both an accepted college application as well as a processed FAFSA.

While this is perhaps a little confusing for many families right now, this is also a great opportunity for churches and nonprofits to provide leadership and resources to their community. By helping families fill out the FAFSA early, you and your organization may be able to provide them with thousands of dollars and financial aid without the organization itself needing to contribute towards that purpose. You also build trust in the community, and show one reason why you are a key community resource.

We see this as a great outreach because it's a very strong need for our families. Churches and nonprofits which are located near schools have an excellent opportunity for outreach and connecting with their local community. Churches can schedule a session right after their church service, and if possible, even provide lunch. Or, if it's possible , providing an afterschool or evening program with a light dinner, such as pizza, which can also be a huge benefit two families. Nonprofits as well can help their community and also their schools as well with an activity that helps families but let's the school clothes on time we be greatly appreciated by the local school.

Do-Gooder Consulting would like encourage you to start your plan this is possible. We understand it might be too late for you to start any event in October, but we encourage you to set up a session in November, December or even the first week of January (before current college students return to school) , and then plan for a FAFSA completion session in early October of 2017.

We have also written in the past about how financial aid deadlines are shrinking, and the importance of having the FAFSA completed as soon pas possible after that opening date.   However, we believe that missing October of 2016 (despite it being the opening date) will be just fine  because for this first year, a number of students will still be getting used to this new date and you may be able to do late by a month or so. For the future, however, we strongly suggest that you schedule a fast the completion session as close to October 1st as possible.


Do-Gooder Consulting is here to help you plan, advertise, or even run a FAFSA completion session. Please contact us by phone at 872-222-8008 or by email at FAFSA(at)do-gooder.us or call us at 872-222-8008 .

We look forward to serving you in the near future.


One final note: please encourage your current college students to renew their FAFSA as soon as possible. It's easy to forget, but with the renewal using the same information they just inputted 6 months ago, it's also easy to fill out, and could provide more money than last well. Simply text and/or e-mail them this secure website address = www.FAFSA.gov


In fact, we'd suggest contacting the following people to fill out the FAFSA as soon as pssible after October 1 (as it costs no money to fill out the FREE Application for Federal Student Aid):

1) Returning college students (see above)
2) High school seniors (as mentioned above)
3) Adults simply thinking about returning to college. Filling out the FAFSA does not obligate someone to go to college, but is one vital step in getting an official financial aid package.

The new deadline helps you receive the financial aid award faster than previous years.

Guest Post = 5 Tips on Video Interview Etiquette

We at Do-Gooder Consulting want to welcome back Krystal Lamb, who gave us our most-read blog post on Facebook. (The article is "8 Ways to Make Your LinkedIn Profile Stand Out") She's back with some more great advice! Krystal Lamb is a human resources professional, LinkedIn certified, and Founder/CEO of Career Tips with Krys. We would love to hear how these tips have helped your video interview!

5 Tips on Video Interview Etiquette

Video interviewing is slowly but surely becoming the next wave. With technology changing, attending an interview in an office will soon become obsolete. A quick Google search will tell us that about 71 percent of companies use real-time video interviewing and 50 percent use video interviews as a way to narrow the candidate pool. With such high statistics, you are sure to conduct a video interview in your near future. There are a couple of different methods of video interviews today but what remains the same is how you present yourself in this environment. I have 5 great tips on how to properly conduct an interview.

1. The Software
Before your interview date, the Recruiter or Hiring Manager will send you the video link to download. Please make sure you try it at least a day before your interview. Some platforms may require an additional program to install or may not be compatible with a specific browser on your computer or smartphone. Whatever the case may be, please take the time to play with the software
on your device BEFORE your interview. This gives you the ability to log on promptly and with ease
ten minutes before your designated interview time. If you have any issues with the link, do not
hesitate to reach out to the Recruiter or Hiring Manager for additional assistance. On top of being
more than willing to help, they will acknowledge the fact that you are taking the initiative and
showing interest in the process.

2. The Location/Background
I cannot stress the importance of conducting your video interview in a QUIET and CLEAN
environment. An interviewer will make note of the background noise and the environment. Move
into a quiet space away from your pets and others in the home. Make sure you are in a well-lit room
and use headphones if you must. You want your interviewer to be focused on you and not what is
behind you.

3. Your Appearance
Dress professionally and not only from the waist up. You never know if you will need to step away
from the screen so it’s best to be prepared. Keep in mind that on screen visibility is very different
from being face to face. Stay away from shiny jewelry and patterned clothing. Bold colors such as
bright red or orange are not best for the screen either. Stick to darker colors or blazers. Keep your
hair away from your face as well so that you are completely visible to the interviewer.

4. The Body Language
Just as if you were in an office interview, you want to have engaging body language. Keep eye
contact and make sure to look into the camera when speaking. Candidates tend to forget that
looking at the screen while speaking is not the same as looking into the camera. Lean forward a bit
so that the interviewer knows you are interested and focused. Speak at a reasonable rate and not
too fast so the interviewer can understand your words. Refrain from any nervous habits or
movements. Don’t forget to smile and remain calm.

5. The Follow-Up
A video interview has its differences from a face-to- face interview but one thing remains the same:
FOLLOW-UP. Always remember to send a thank you email. It’s the easiest way to be remembered
and to show your full interest in the role. This act speaks volumes to a company and is something
that a lot of managers want to see.


Krystal Lamb is a Sales Recruiter/Human Resources Representative at a Telecommunications company in Chicago, IL. She is also the Founder/CEO of Career Tips with Krys, where she provides resume editing, resume writing, career counseling and interview etiquette services. Contact her through email at krystherecruiter@gmail.com , on Instagram @careertipswithkrys or Like her www.facebook.com/careertipswithkrys

FAFSA opening date has changed to THIS October 1!

The FAFSA opening date has changed! "Traditionally" the opening date was January 1. But things have changed,

The main trouble will be for families who have returning students. They will think “Didn’t we just fill this out?”  And that feeling is justified, as it may have been 8 months or less when they filled out the FAFSA.  That is going to require a change in mindset. For years, Do-Gooder Consulting has advocated FAFSA completion sessions at the beginning of the year. We have worked with churches to do such a session following their service on the first Sunday of January.

Now, we encourage churches to hold such a session in October or if needed, November. Nonprofits can work with families with holding evening sessions, or also during the day if the families have Columbus Day or Veterans’ Day off.  It’s a huge shift in scheduling, and may conflict with other activities. But if going to - and graduating - college is a priority, then lifestyle changes need to be made.

So please, plan accordingly, so your student can get the best financial aid possible. If you are part of a church or nonprofit (or even business that wishes to maximize help for your employees, customers and their families), please contact us at Do-Gooder Consulting, and let’s see how we can work together for the best interest of students. We would be happy to help you organize a coalition of organizations to maximize resources and impact. Feel free to call or text Do-Gooder Consulting at 872-222-8008 or e-mail at  blog@do-gooder.us

Guest Post = 8 Ways to Make Your LinkedIn Profile Stand Out

This week, we invited a friend of Do-Gooder to share information that could helpful for your clients, members, employees, and even yourself. Krystal Lamb is a human resources professional, LinkedIn certified, and Founder/CEO of Career Tips with Krys. We would love to hear how these tips have helped your LinkedIn experience!

Krystal Lamb

With all of the different tools available to find a job, searching online has become the most convenient route. You don’t have to leave the comfort of your home and you can privately apply to any company at any time. You can upload your resume to these job search sites and apply with just one click. There are many different job search sites available but the top site, in my opinion, is LinkedIn.

For the past 5 years, I have been a huge advocate of LinkedIn. The popularity has soared and millions of companies have joined looking for top talent. As a Certified LinkedIn Professional Recruiter, I am constantly sourcing and finding the best candidates, whether they are looking for a new job right now or not! Since I am logged on all day, I can spot the best LinkedIn profiles easily. Here are the top eight ways to have an All-Star LinkedIn profile!

1. The Headline is Creative and Stands Out
   One surefire way to have a company contact you on LinkedIn is to have a great headline. You should make sure to include keywords about your specialty. Keep it short and sweet!
2.  A Professional Photo
   Your LinkedIn photo should be a headshot. You should be the ONLY person in the photo and it should be clear and recent. I understand this is social media but this could be your first impression to your next employer!
3. Make Connections
   It is a great idea to make tons of connections on LinkedIn! The point of connecting is to make sure that you show up in LinkedIn searches. You also may be able to network with a 2nd or 3rd degree connection at that dream job you want!
4. Brag About Everything
   LinkedIn gives you the ability to add items to your profile such as Certifications, projects, volunteering, past or current school courses and patents! There are employers who are very interested in knowing what type of interests you have outside of work.
5. Tack on Those Recommendations
   You have the ability to add recommendations to your profile from past employers and colleagues. If you left on good terms or worked with an awesome team, connect on LinkedIn and ask for a recommendation. Be prepared to write one in return!
6. Add Contact Information
   An employer or recruiter should not have to conduct a deep investigation to find your contact information. Make sure you have an email address and/or a phone number near the top of your profile. Adding your different social media connections are an option as well.
7. Join LinkedIn Groups
   These are great ways to connect with other like-minded individuals. There are many conversations happening daily in these groups. Make sure you join groups that are relevant to your interests and specialty.
8. Stay Up-to-Date and Current
   Share articles that you read, like different posts on your timeline and keep your work history up-to-date. You must stay engaged in order to be seen. Think of your LinkedIn profile as your resume. If it’s outdated, how will you ever find your dream job??

 
Krystal Lamb is a Sales Recruiter/Human Resources Representative at a Telecommunications company in Chicago, IL. She is also the Founder/CEO of Career Tips with Krys, where she provides resume editing, resume writing, career counseling and interview etiquette services. Contact her through email at krystherecruiter@gmail.com , on Instagram @careertipswithkrys or Like her www.facebook.com/careertipswithkrys/

Your student needs to fill out the FAFSA -- NOW!!!

We at Do-Gooder Consulting really want to implore anyone with a student going to college - whether high school senior, returning student, or an adult even thinking about going to college - to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) NOW! Don’t wait! 

Back in our day, the FAFSA was filled out by hand. The financial aid officer also had to calculate by hand, which made the process long and strenuous. Any revisions would be equally as long , so it was suggested that students wait until taxes were done before submitting the FAFSA. That allowed families to make copies of tax forms, and provide accurate information. Financial aid programs like the Illinois Monetary Assistance Program (MAP) grant were able to provide money up until classes actually began.

However, technology, especially through the web and computers, has completely changed the process - for the better.  Using www.FAFSA.gov families can quickly input (and change) information.  Most people send their taxes in online, whether by using an application at home such as Turbo Tax, or going to a professional such as H & R Block, or even most independent accountants.  That information can then be easily downloaded via the IRS Retrieval Tool. That one click often replaces the photocopies and mailings and calls to the financial aid office of the past.

The downside of the technology upgrades is that since it makes it easier to fill out applications for financial aid, more people know about the opportunities and are rushing to take advantage of it.  We talked about the shrinking MAP deadlines in the past. Even though the state of Illinois is having problems now with disbursing MAP funds for the current year, in order to possibly funds for the next school year (2016-2017), Illinois residents need to fill out the FAFSA within the next week.

We previously wrote about MAP deadlines, with 2015 running out by approximately Valentine’s Day (Feb. 14). Below is our projections for when MAP money will run out not just for the upcoming school year, but the school year following.

In looking at the graphic, you may have noticed that our projection for the end of MAP money is the middle of this November. That’s because of some major changes with the FAFSA for the next school year. Do-Gooder Consulting documented these changes in an earlier blog.

There are some good reasons for this change.  The earlier deadline, which now coincides with many college application deadlines. This allows students to make a timely decision to see if a college is a good fit not just academically but also financially. See our graphic below for details on the need to have both a completed FAFSA and a college application that is not just completed, but accepted by the college.

The main trouble will be for families who have returning students. They will think “Didn’t we just fill this out?”  And that feeling is justified, as it may have been 8 months or less when they filled out the FAFSA.  That is going to require a change in mindset. For years, Do-Gooder Consulting has advocated FAFSA completion sessions at the beginning of the year. We have worked with churches to do such a session following their service on the first Sunday of January.

Now, we encourage churches to hold such a session in October or if needed, November. Nonprofits can work with families with holding evening sessions, or also during the day if the families have Columbus Day or Veterans’ Day off.  It’s a huge shift in scheduling, and may conflict with other activities. But if going to - and graduating - college is a priority, then lifestyle changes need to be made.

So please, plan accordingly, so your student can get the best financial aid possible. If you are part of a church or nonprofit (or even business that wishes to maximize help for your employees, customers and their families), please contact us at Do-Gooder Consulting, and let’s see how we can work together for the best interest of students. We would be happy to help you organize a coalition of organizations to maximize resources and impact. Feel free to call or text Do-Gooder Consulting at 872-222-8008 or e-mail at  blog@do-gooder.us

Illinois College Access Network February 2016 meeting = Feb 9

Illinois College Access Network

Where?  Chicago Scholars – 247 S State Street – Chicago IL

When?   Tuesday, February 9, 2016

8:00 – Light Breakfast and Networking
8:45 – Onset of Mental Health Issues During the College Years

• Coalition of 80 national private and public colleges (4 in Illinois) proposing innovative approach to processing applications
• BRING YOUR OWN QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS

Announcements and additional discussion until adjournment +/- 10;30

Questions or RSVPs to illinoiscollegeaccessnetwork@gmail.com.

Membership or Renewal:  www.illinoiscan.org.  Current members, categories, fees, and applications are at the website under “Membership.”

There are a lot of changes in the world of college access & financial aid. Come get updated!


You can also call/text 872-222-8008 or e-mail blog@do-gooder.us for an update. Updates for the event are at this link and  the website at www.illinoiscan.org   

JP Paulus on V103 THIS Sunday

Do-Gooder Consulting President JP Paulus will be on V103's Sunday call-in show "Chicago Speaks with Darryl Dennard".

He should be on some time between 6:30pm - 7:30pm (depending on topics and guests) on Sunday, February 7.

You can listen by tuning into 102.7 FM, or online by clicking this link. V103 is part of the iHeartRadio network, and can be found on their app and website, if you'd like to listen online.

2 weeks ago, Chicago Speaks featured the MAP Grant crisis in Illinois, where the current state budget crisis is preventing the Illinois Student Assistance Commission from disbursing funds to colleges. Because of Chicago State University's current budget issues, the lack of MAP (Monetary Assistance Program) money is causing even larger problems, which is prompting quicker action.

That inspired JP to share his recent blogpost about 2016 MAP Deadlines and the new FAFSA opening date. Despite the current crisis, students will still have to plan for next year, as ISAC won't suspend their normal process. Also, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will have an earlier deadline.  JP will talk about those issues on this Sunday's show.

Now, breaking events could bump JP from the lineup, but plan to hear him some time between 6:30pm - 7:30pm

We hope you can tune in. You can also call in with questions at 312-591-8103.

Darryl M. Dennard, host of "Chicago Speaks" on V103, 102.7 FM in Chicago

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Did you know we do graphic design and Powerpoint Presentations?

Did you know we can do basic graphic design and PowerPoint presentations?

If you are a speaker, teacher or preacher, you have a lot of great things to say. But you probably don't the time or the technical expertise to create an appropriate visual complement, to help your listeners absorb that information.

We can also use PowerPoint to help you set up detailed professional flyers for events. JP Paulus of Do-Gooder did this promotional card for Oakdale Covenant Church's recent Men's Week:

We've also helped their Women's Ministry as well

What are your needs? Let us know how we can help you! Contact Do-Gooder Consulting by phone or text at 872-222-8008 or by e-mail at blog@do-gooder.us

We are also contemplating doing a webinar with about 7-10 Powerpoint tips to help you maximize your use of Powerpoint. Let us know!

New events for a new year

It's a brand new year  for JP Paulus and Do-Gooder Consulting, and we would like to see you as part of the action. Call or text us at 872-222-8008 or e-mail us at  blog@do-gooder.us if you have questions or would like to meet! (Also, see the bottom of this post regarding an opportunity to help your students with financial aid!)

Urban Youth Network

The next meeting is scheduled for Saturday January 16at  9am. The location is different than usual - New Life Covenant Northwest, 5100 w. Diversey. From UYN coordinator Nick Rivera:

I want to extend an invitation to join UYN on Saturday January 16 to cover 2 areas. 

• First to unite in prayer with other youth workers to cover our students. The work we do can be very difficult and praying with out brothers and sisters in Christ is absolutely crucial. 
• Second is to hear about how to make an impact in the schools around your church. Perhaps you have had a desire to get in the schools but don't know how, Shawn Proctor of Grip Outreach for Youth will lead a workshop on how to do so. You don't want to miss

  February's is guest speaker is longtime Chicago Urban Youth Worker Amy Williams. Date is to be determined, but probably Feb. 20

 Join fellow youth workers for fellowship & growth.  You can also call/text 872-222-8008 or e-mail blog@do-gooder.us for an update, or questions.  

Free breakfast (includes doughnuts, fruit, juice and coffee) is provided.

For more info, contact Nick Rivera at nick@gripyouth.com or see the Urban Youth Network Facebook page. 

Business First Friday  

This longtime networking event continues at Chef Sara's Cafe in South Shore. See you Friday, January 8 at 8:30 am, located at 7261 S. Exchange. 

We have begun some great partnerships through these meetings, such as Global Generation group (see our previous blog post). Many members of the Chatham Business Association (see below) plan on joining us. This event is hosted by Bruce Montgomery of Technology TV (among many other ventures).

From the First Friday event's Facebook page:

Illinois College Access Network

Where?  Chicago Scholars – 247 S State Street – Chicago IL

When?   Tuesday, February 9, 2016

8:00 – Light Breakfast and Networking
8:45 – Onset of Mental Health Issues During the College Years

• Coalition of 80 national private and public colleges (4 in Illinois) proposing innovative approach to processing applications
• BRING YOUR OWN QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS

Announcements and additional discussion until adjournment +/- 10;30

Questions or RSVPs to illinoiscollegeaccessnetwork@gmail.com.

Membership or Renewal:  www.illinoiscan.org.  Current members, categories, fees, and applications are at the website under “Membership.”

There are a lot of changes in the world of college access & financial aid. Come get updated!

You can also call/text 872-222-8008 or e-mail blog@do-gooder.us for an update. Updates for the event are at this link and  the website at www.illinoiscan.org   

Chatham Business Association 

We'll see you at the next Chatham Business Association meeting  at 8:30am on Tuesday, January 12, at the QBG Foundation Building, Meeting Room, 806 E. 78th St. Chicago, IL 60619 .The Monthly Membership Meeting, held by Chatham Business Association, Small Business Development Inc., is to inform current members and prospective members about issues and activities going on in Chatham and the City of Chicago.
 You do not need to be a member to attend, but you should register.  Breakfast is provided for a small fee. See their webpage for details on this event.  

Tutor Mentor Conference

We appreciate Daniel Bassill of the Tutor Mentor Institute inviting us to the May 2015 Tutor-Mentor Conference to present on "Twists on Traditional Fundraising".  The 44th conference will be in May 2016, with a smaller gathering planned in November 2015. Look for updates here on their website.

FAFSA Completion sessions

We're also scheduling FAFSA completion sessions for the first week of January, where we help families correctly fill out the FAFSA. The first that we have planned is one at Oakdale Covenant Church, 9440 S. Vincennes after the 10:30am service on Sunday, January 17, 2016. We will utilize Oakdale Christian Academy's computer lab to allow up to 20 families to fill out their FAFSA at a time. Check our blog for details and updates. Call text or e-mail us to schedule your own session!

We hope to more fully participate in events such as:

•  the College Changes Everything Conference in July 2016 (where we presented at the 2015 conference), 
  
  
  
  
  
   
• The Illinois Colege Access Network Conference in August 2016, 
  
• and the CCDA (Christian Community Development Association) Conference in September 2016. 
  

We will post details as they arrive.

We hope to see you at these and other events.  Don't forget to bring business cards, even if it is a "bootleg" business card (see our blog on it).  If you plan on coming to these events, please call/test us at 872-222-8008 or by e-mail at blog@do-gooder.us

We hope to see you soon!