How to: AFGE's Education Services Program

Children attending College or interested yourself? Enrollment in colleges and universities is expected to increase to over 17 million by 2012. More and more people each year decide to invest in their children's (or their own) future. Simply stated, college graduates are likely to earn much higher salaries. According to the Census Bureau, a bachelor's degree is worth about $1 million more during a work life than a high school diploma. How can I get help for the entire "Go to College" process? From selecting a college to paying for continuing education, AFGE members have an online resource to them and their families with the entire process. Members can get tips for selecting a college, completing applications, breaking down the FAFSA process, searching for scholarships and more.. How can I get assistance with education costs? The Union Plus Education Services program offers financing for a range of education and training needs — customized to meet the needs of today's working families. The program is offered through American Education Services, a unionized shop with nearly 1,000 AFSCME members who are ready to assist you with your education needs. How can I get help with financial aid forms? Call toll-free 1-877-881-1022 to speak to a Union Plus financial aid counselor and fellow union member. Experts are on hand to answer your questions and guide you through the application process. How can I shop at a union-organized, online bookstore? Visit Powell's Bookstore where union members can buy new and used textbooks and other reading materials at reasonable prices. Visit www.unionplus.org/books. Does AFGE have a scholarship program for my children or me? Members are also eligible for the JNS College Scholarship, established by the Executive Board of the AFGE to honor John N. Sturdivant, President of the AFGE from 1988 to 1997. Scholarships are awarded in amounts ranging from $500.00 to $1,000.00 per eligible individual for each year and are to provide assistance to attend the college degree program at the George Meany Center for Labor Studies. How can I get information about other union-sponsored scholarships and aid? Find out about the more than $4 million in union-sponsored scholarships and details about eligibility, application deadlines and contact information by visiting www.afge.org. Call toll-free 1-877-881-1022 to speak to a Union Plus financial aid counselor and fellow union member. Experts are on hand to answer your questions and guide you through the application process, or visit the Members Section of www.age.org