In 2006, Eastern Michigan University was awarded a grant from the United States Department of Education to support the program known as GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs). GEAR UP serves students, guardians and staff of three local school districts, Ypsilanti Public Schools, Willow Run Community Schools and Wayne-Westland. Through a variety of programs and events, the goal of GEAR UP was to motivate and help students strengthen academic achievements, and increase student enrollment and retention at a post-secondary school.

Students who participated in the GEAR UP Program, benefited from before and after school tutoring, mentoring, college visits, weekend and summer programs, and much more. Events and workshops have been held on topics such as the financial aspects of college, how to choose the right school for you, as well as, many other topics to help students and families with their journey to college.

GEAR UP continues on campus under the direction of the Institute for the Studies of Children, Families and Community (iSCHFC).