Youth Villages Oregon premiered on KGW’s Hello, Rose City! to highlight the community-based programs helping Portland foster youth. LifeSet Scholar, DJ, shared his educational goals he wishes to accomplish and urges the community to invest in others like him.
I’m currently an undergrad student at Tennessee State University studying chemistry. Most of my time goes toward studying to make sure I stay on track to go to medical school and become a gynecologist.
Building a community support system is something 22-year-old DJ values. As an athlete, DJ knew he always had support through his track and basketball teams.
Youth Villages hosted an open house in Mayfield, Kentucky, for future partners and providers in the Lakes region to learn more about community-based programs.
I was 17 and in foster care when I had my son. I was on track to graduate high school but didn’t think college was an option for a young mom without any family support. Then, I got connected with my LifeSet specialist.
“I’m the first in my family to graduate high school and go to college, which is not something I always thought was possible. Loyal is the best word to describe my LifeSet specialist. It’s incredible how everyone seems to truly want to see us successful in life,” LifeSet participant, Jahlin, shares their story.
Youth Villages Oregon was featured on Hello Rose City, highlighting the financial literacy program offered for ILP and LifeSet participants.
Recently, five young adults who aged out of foster care at 18 got on a stage at Nissan Stadium to share their experience transitioning to adulthood without a family support system.
Brayden regains his voice, support systems through Independent Living Program. As a 20-year-old, Brayden looks back on the day that transformed his outlook on life.
For youth aging out of foster care without support, the future can be daunting. Some young people experience homelessness, poverty, domestic abuse and involvement with law enforcement.