Youth Matter

Youth economic advancement

Pilot or new project, program, or initiative (testing or implementing a new idea)

Foster youth face significant challenges transitioning into adulthood, often lacking family support systems. Research shows that those receiving comprehensive support and wrap-around services have significantly better outcomes. According to the National Foster Youth Institute, only 50% graduate from high school, and less than 10% earn a college degree. However, foster youth in mentorship programs and with access to afterschool programs, food, and clothing achieve higher academic and career success. The Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative reports they are twice as likely to be employed at 21 and more likely to complete high school and college. Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago found they have higher social-emotional well-being and more stable relationships. These findings highlight the importance of Just Who I Am Inc.'s holistic support initiatives for foster youth.

The grant will support Just Who I Am Inc.'s "Pathways to Empowerment" initiative, aimed at addressing the significant challenges faced by foster youth as they transition into adulthood. This program focuses on providing mentorship, job training, and holistic support services through our Legacy Center, which serves as a hub for foster youth development.
Pathways to Empowerment will offer structured mentorship programs where foster youth are paired with dedicated mentors who provide guidance, emotional support, and career counseling. These mentors will help youth navigate educational and career pathways, ensuring they have the necessary skills and confidence to pursue their goals.
The Legacy Center will also expand its wrap-around services, offering afterschool programs, summer camps, food services, clothing, and other basic needs. These services are designed to create a stable and supportive environment, addressing the immediate needs of foster youth while promoting their overall well-being.
By providing comprehensive support, mentorship, job training, and fostering youth involvement, Pathways to Empowerment aims to significantly improve the academic, social, and economic outcomes for foster youth, reducing the risk of adverse outcomes such as unemployment, homelessness, and poor mental health.

If our Pathways to Empowerment initiative is successful, Los Angeles County will see a transformative impact on its foster youth community. Success will mean that foster youth have higher high school graduation rates, increased college enrollment, and greater access to stable, well-paying jobs. These youth will be better equipped to overcome challenges, leading to lower rates of homelessness, unemployment, and mental health issues. Our vision for success includes creating a network of empowered, self-sufficient young adults who contribute positively to their communities. In the longer term, we plan to scale and expand Pathways to Empowerment by partnering with additional community organizations, schools, and local businesses. This expansion will allow us to reach more foster youth across Los Angeles County, creating a ripple effect of positive change and fostering a community where every foster youth has the opportunity to thrive

Pathways to Empowerment is an existing program, and we measure its impact through a combination of quantitative and qualitative metrics. Key performance indicators include high school graduation rates, college enrollment rates, employment rates, and retention in job training programs. We also track participation all programs, services and workshops.
Our evidence of success includes a 20% increase in high school graduation rates and a 15% rise in college enrollments among program participants over the past two years. Additionally, 80% of our job training participants have secured employment within six months of completing the program.
We gather qualitative feedback through regular surveys and focus groups with foster youth, mentors, and program staff, which help us assess the program's effectiveness and areas for improvement. Testimonials from participants highlight increased self-confidence, better preparedness for the workforce, and stronger support networks.