AIC Launches LIFT Center with $85,000 in Grants to Address Student Basic Needs

SPRINGFIELD — American International College (AIC) has expanded its student support services through the LIFT Center (Linking Individuals to Fundamental Tools), a new resource hub that connects students with essential resources and assistance.

The initiative is supported by $85,000 in grant funding, including a $34,000 award from the Beveridge Family Foundation and a $51,000 grant from an anonymous foundation supporting student success.

Located in the James J. Shea Sr. Memorial Library, the LIFT Center connects students with resources addressing food insecurity, housing instability, transportation, childcare, public benefits, and other essential needs.

“At AIC, we understand that our students carry more than textbooks — many are balancing work, family, and financial hardship while pursuing their degrees,” said Kevin Lopez Giraldo, assistant director of Student Success Advising and Initiatives. “The LIFT Center reflects our commitment to supporting the whole student and ensuring that life’s challenges do not stand in the way of educational success.”

The LIFT Center serves as a central point of access for student support and referrals. Services include food pantry access, meal vouchers, emergency financial assistance, housing referrals, public benefits enrollment support, childcare resources, legal aid referrals, financial counseling, and transportation assistance.

Students may access services directly or be referred by faculty, advisors, and campus partners. Support is offered in a confidential, welcoming environment designed to help students navigate challenges and remain focused on their educational goals.

“This innovative program provides students with the support they need to continue — and complete — their studies,” said Ward Caswell, president of the Beveridge Family Foundation. “It reflects AIC’s commitment to meeting students where they are and addressing the real challenges they face in today’s complex world. With targeted, meaningful support, AIC is helping students stay on track to become tomorrow’s leaders.”

By connecting students to critical resources and reducing non-academic barriers, the LIFT Center advances AIC’s mission of expanding educational opportunity and supporting student success.

“The Beveridge Family Foundation’s support is transformative — not just for the LIFT Center, but for every student who walks through our doors in need of a helping hand,” Lopez Giraldo said. “This funding ensures students facing food insecurity, public benefits challenges, or housing instability do not face those challenges alone. We are deeply grateful for this partnership and excited to reshape student support at AIC.”