WASHINGTON D.C. —On August 23, President Donald Trump waved the green flag to start the days Freedom 250 Grand Prix Race with First Lady, Melania Trump at his side. On August 20, First Lady of the United States (FLOTUS), Melania Trump made an announcement in the Rose Garden at the White House; that she had secured a $2 Million donation from the proceeds of the Indy 250 race from Indy-Car and Fox Corporation to benefit her Fostering the Future initiative.

The First Lady made the introductory speech, the full text of which may be found on the White House webpage or be viewed on WHWire.

“Welcome to the White House.

A warm welcome to our distinguished guests today — Mr. President; my father, Mr. Knavs; Cabinet Members; Mr. Penske; Mr. Boles; Mr. Shanks; the talented drivers; our universities; and the remarkable individuals who stand in support of my Fostering the Future initiative.

The greatest investment America can make is not in technology, infrastructure, or capital markets — it’s our children.

We are at the beginning of an era defined by artificial intelligence, robotics, and industries that have yet to be imagined. But America’s greatest competitive advantage remains in its own people.

Tomorrow’s leaders are sitting in classrooms today, including those growing up in foster care. Their capability is no less remarkable.

Fostering the Future elevates America’s youth based on merit and talent, lifting them beyond economic circumstance and every other condition that may limit opportunity.

Our mission is simple yet transformational: provide every young person from the foster care community [with] the chance to earn a college education, launch a meaningful career, and achieve lasting financial independence.

Today, Indiana University and Purdue University join Fostering the Future’s growing coast-to-coast alliance of leading academic institutions. Congratulations and thank you! Together, they expand a national network of 26 universities that prepare our foster youth to shape America’s growth.

I am very proud to share that this past spring, Fostering the Future scholarships supported the education of our first doctor. He will change the lives of so many people. Tomorrow, thanks to visionary partners such as IndyCar and FOX, Fostering the Future graduates will build new companies, launch new industries, and redefine what is possible for all Americans….”

The First Lady launched her Fostering the Future initiative in 2021, under the umbrella of her, Be Best campaign.

Twenty-six colleges and universities across the nation have established Fostering the Future programs:
University of Texas
University of North Carolina
University of Virginia
University of Florida
Vanderbilt University
The Ohio State University
University of Georgia
University of Wisconsin
University of Miami
Purdue University
University of Alabama
Villanova University
Indiana University
Arizona State University
Louisiana State University
Pepperdine University
University of South Carolina
Florida International University
Mercer University
Oral Roberts University
Middle Tennessee State University
Cleveland State University
Miami Dade College
Concordia University, Irvine
Concordia University, Nebraska
Dominican University, New York