Helping Open doors by Preparing and Empowering young women Youth in foster care often have histories of severe trauma; parental abuse, parental alcohol or drug abuse, and lack supportive adult relationships. Two to four years after leaving foster care, less than 50% are employed, only 38% have maintained employment for at least one year, 25% will become incarcerated, 33% will receive welfare and 40% will be or have been pregnant. A growing body of knowledge indicates that foster youth have a stronger chance to become successful adults when support is coordinated across the community. In response to the need, Women & Philanthropy brought together representatives of six local youthserving providers. They have developed a coordinated network of hands-on services, matching each young woman with a mentor and providing tools that empower them to reach their educational, career, financial, relationship and health-related goals.
WOMEN & PHILANTHROPY
Women & Philanthropy’s H.O.P.E. PROJECT