Defender Newsletter Issue 36

Evans Story

TIL 2:25, otherwise known as Transitional Independent Living, is a place of restoration and growth. It consists of homes where young adults who are aging out of foster care can learn to thrive as they take on adulthood. Evans Jean-Charles is one of over 292 young adults who have been supported through a challenging time of life.

At just 12 years old, Evans’ mother passed away, and through a difficult relationship dynamic with his father, Evans lived with his grandmother for a few years. Shortly after that chapter ended, Evan’s struggled to find other relatives or friends to live with, leaving him at the face of homelessness. His cousin Gene invited Evans to a Bible study one night, and they began to chat about 4KIDS TIL 2:25, as Gene was a resident a year prior. Seeing where Gene was in his life, successful and happy, Evans decided it was the best option for him to join TIL 2:25.

Although not always an easy journey, his experience at TIL 2:25 made Evans feel supported and cared for, knowing the Resident Advisors always wanted the best for him. He was guided to focus on his school work, and set goals for his future. Evans made great friends during his time at TIL 2:25 and even spent some time as a “house lead,” being an example for other young men in his house and creating a safe environment for other boys in the neighborhood to play basketball or have dinner. He then became an RA (Resident Advisor) and became a mentor for 10 years!

Evans’ story is one of growth and success through a strong community. Out of his childhood filled with uncertainty and no place to truly call home, he now is happily married with a job at a Law Firm, Greenspoon Marder and also owns his own photography and videography company called PhotoMovement.