Chelsea’s journey with Foster Success began at 18, as she was preparing to age out of the foster care system. Facing the uncertainty of adulthood, she learned about the Education and Training Voucher (ETV) program, a federally funded, state administered resource offering financial, academic, and human support for young adults pursuing post-secondary education.
“When young people age out of the system at 18, they don’t have any support or resources. A lot of young people don’t have someone to ask how to fill out a FAFSA form or apply for scholarships,” Chelsea explained.
The ETV program provided not just financial and academic assistance, but a network of adult support who heard Chelsea’s struggles and believed in her potential. With the support of the ETV team, Chelsea pursued her undergraduate degree while also obtaining a Cosmetology license—becoming part of the 3% of older foster youth to earn a college degree.
Now she’s determined to make the most of her time at Foster Success before she ages out of its programs. ETV program staff connected Chelsea to other resources like Opportunity Passport™, where she learned financial skills and grew her savings. She recently took a Works Wonders® class to expand her career exploration, make connections, and build upon her career strengths.
Reflecting on her journey with Foster Success, she is grateful for the consistent support she has received financially and emotionally. She knows just how crucial that stability has been in helping her pursue success in adulthood and navigate life after foster care.
“I’ve seen what can happen to someone when they don’t have the support they need to be successful outside of the system,” said Chelsea on watching her peers fall into instability, and even homelessness. “It’s devastating. Young people deserve to have support.”
These reflections have been the driving force in Chelsea’s passion and commitment to empower the next generation of young people with lived experience in foster care. She is ready to foster the same support that uplifted her through becoming a peer leader. “I want to be someone a young person can come to and feel heard. That it’s okay to feel overwhelmed and we’re here to support one another.”
This #GivingTuesday, you have the chance to make a real impact on the lives of young people like Chelsea, who are working hard to build a successful future for themselves and the next generation. Make your impact today by giving to our FriendsGiving campaign.