Youth Villages stories

Tristan at his graduation party with his mentors and Youth Villages staff

In the News: From Foster Care to the Ivy League

Aug 22, 2024 | Blog, Media Coverage

“Ten years ago, I was sitting in a juvenile detention cell in East Tennessee, alone, wondering if I would get home in time to start high school.

I wouldn’t.

I never made it back home. I entered the custody of the state, spending years in juvenile justice and foster care placements. Eventually, I turned 18 in a Nashville group home and exited the system, alone.

And yet, this year, I graduated from Columbia University with my master of social work. I’m not alone anymore, either.”

headshot of Tristian

Read Full Story on The Tennessesan
Read Full Story on Yahoo!

Thanks to Tristan for sharing his story, and big congratulations to him on all his hard work! We can’t wait to see the positive impact he makes on the world.

Share on Social

Archives