FAM Program

Familiarize, Affirm, and Matter (FAM) Program

The JLRMC’s FAM Program seeks to see every student affirmed, connected, and engaged at Eastern Washington University. We do this through community building, peer relationships, education, community engagement, and personalized support from staff. This program is open to all students, regardless of class standing, with a special focus on first time in college and transfer students. The FAM program is meant to enhance your college experience and compliment your other interests and commitments. 

If you’re interested in becoming part of a welcoming community, enjoying shared meals at the JLRMC, getting connected to opportunities and services on campus, and learning from peers through a shared experience – join the FAM!

LAUNCH is an early move-in experience as part of the FAM program for new students at EWU (First time in College & Transfers). It takes place in mid-September before the start of Fall quarter. LAUNCH encourages you to (1) Familiarize yourself with campus and all of the things you didn’t know you didn’t know, (2) Affirm your dedication to your education and your reason for pursuing a degree, increasing your motivation to be successful, and (3) recognize that you Matter– your needs, your aspirations, your skills and talents all matter at EWU. Students living off campus are welcome to participate.

When is it?

Summer LAUNCH begins a few days before on-campus housing move-in days. This means Summer LAUNCH students get to move-in to their campus residence hall early- Wednesday, September 17 and the programs ends September 19, 2025. Over the next 3 days, students will do community building and personal development activities, learn about campus resources, explore the local area, and meet with faculty/staff champions. Participating in Summer LAUNCH automatically signs you up for the FAM program, which runs through the school year.

How much does it cost?

Thanks to generous donors, volunteers, and campus partners, Summer LAUNCH 2025 is FREE OF CHARGE! Summer LAUNCH is hosted by the JLR Multicultural Center and is supported by many campus partners in order to subsidize the cost of early move-in, meals, swag items, outdoor activities, travel, and all supplies (all together, the cost of attendance per student is approx. $800).

Questions?

Participants said the most beneficial part of FAM was: 

“I was able to meet new people and feel like I have a support system. This is the most impactful because I feel like I belong here.”

It helps to know that there are people here to help when I need it.”

“It helped me make friends and be able to open up about my concerns.”