Take a moment to hear directly from young adults in our FOCUS program about how their mentors have helped them grow.
Jos shares how FOCUS has helped her gain confidence for a successful transition into adulthood after leaving the DCF system.
Janelli shares how the FOCUS program and her mentor have helped her succeed in her new role as mom and how FOCUS has helped her feel a part of a supportive community.
Erin shares how the FOCUS program provided guidance and support as she finished her college degree and began her professional working life and now looks forward to a lifelong relationship with her FOCUS mentor.
FOCUS is a community-based membership program that connects transition-aged youth to resources, peers, and community members with the goal of success and independence!
Young people who have left the foster care system without family and other supports need to know how they will survive and flourish. Each young person is an important part of their peer community. They are also supported by volunteers who will connect them to resources and can also offer coaching as they navigate young adulthood. This program can be long-term, up to three or more years.
Become a FOCUS member and enjoy the benefits of community-building, resources, education, and coaching programs!
Accelerate your plans
If you are 18-26 years old and have been in the foster care system, FOCUS is here to support you in the ways that best meet YOUR needs.
Sergio, A FOCUS young adult
Sergio powerfully shares what mentors through FOCUS mean to him. He talks with hope of how his life has changed and how, through their support, he is taking control of his life. As Sergio so heart fully shares, “I am the future."
Being a Mentor: One family's journey
Sarah and Dave share the story of what a mentor is and means to both their FOCUS young adult and to them. The gift that this opportunity provides for all involved touches everyone's life. We hope you will take a moment to watch this video and consider being a mentor.
"I've learned that what I have to say about my own life matters to others. I know how to ask for help and support, and I have the ability to give others the support they need to succeed."
- Devonne McLaughlin
Each year, 24,000 young adults age out of the child welfare system without permanent families or strong community connections.
The consequences can be dire.
0%
are homeless within a year0%
graduate from college0%
are unemployedYoung people deserve better.
Our FOCUS mentorship program is an innovative solution to the lack of connection felt by young people aging out of foster care.
“Youth can do a lot of really powerful and important things. We just need people to believe in us.”
- FOCUS Participant
Do you have special expertise to share?
We rely on individuals and organizations who are interested in providing valuable resources and expertise to our FOCUS youth. Young adults will benefit greatly from your knowledge in areas such as:
- financial fitness
- job search readiness
- navigating housing
- transportation
- health care
- and more!
Short-term and long-term opportunities are available. Get in touch with us to learn more about how you can provide expertise, resources or basic needs to participants in the FOCUS program
FOCUS volunteers must be 25 years of age or older, and pass a background check.