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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
“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 held its first-ever Growing Stronger Summit, a two-day event featuring keynote speaker David Ambroz, author and national child welfare and poverty expert.
Youth Villages Oregon hosted their first Growing Stronger Breakfast sponsored by longtime partner, The Standard. Board member Charlie Swindell hosted the event at Multnomah Athletic Club with nearly 100 people in attendance.