Natalie, a LifeSet Scholar, wears many hats: a first-generation college student, academic advisor, a mentor for other foster youth, and most importantly, a role model and advocate for her 14-year-old sister.
LifeSet Articles
LifeSet helps James overcome obstacles and achieve his goals
Youth who age out of foster care often face significant challenges when transitioning to adulthood. They can be at risk for homelessness, unemployment, unstable housing, involvement with the criminal justice system, mental health issues and difficulty accessing education or stable employment.
LifeSet teaches Thomas to crush his goals
Meet Thomas (he/him/his), a 19-year-old coastal North Carolina native who is now crushing his goals thanks to the LifeSet program.
Mari finally finds stability
Mari entered the foster care system at just 9 years old when she was removed from her mother’s care. She was put in an emergency foster home before being placed with her father and his girlfriend.
Support, Strength, and Motherhood: Marlia’s Path to a Better Life
Young women who transition out of foster care are more likely to experience pregnancy than their peers. According to the National Foster Youth Institute, seven out of 10 girls who age out of care will become pregnant by their 21st birthday.
Middle Tennessee Young adults in LifeSet Celebrate Graduation
Over 70 young adults with experience in the foster care system in Middle Tennessee gathered to celebrate graduations ranging from HiSET (high school equivalency) to master’s degrees.
Crossing the finish line, Garrett’s college dream fulfilled
Garrett entered his senior year of high school with a primary goal of attending college. However, the prep track and field athlete needed assistance in getting over some hurdles to reach his goal of post-secondary education and an opportunity to run track in college.
Peer-to-Peers: Life skills and life connections
Every month, Youth Villages Oregon hosts a Peer-to-Peer gathering for participants in LifeSet, an evidence-based program helping youth aging out of foster care learn skills to navigate adulthood, and the Independent Living Program for transition-age youth.
Jeremy’s Path to Confidence and Connection
“It’s a life changing experience and it gives you a whole different concept about yourself.” These are the words of Jeremy, a LifeSet participant who felt all odds were against him growing up and into adulthood.
North Carolina’s Growing Stronger Summit
North Carolina held its first-ever Growing Stronger Summit, a two-day event featuring keynote speaker David Ambroz, author and national child welfare and poverty expert.