In the world of fostering, many young individuals face immense challenges as they age out of the system. One such story is that of Emily, who was only 11 when she lost her mother to addiction. With a father overwhelmed by sorrow and mental health issues, social services soon stepped in. By that time, Emily had already begun to forge a path of rebellion, frequently skipping school and engaging in risky behavior. This marked the beginning of her tumultuous journey through various foster homes.
As the Denver Post reports, Emily spent six long years moving between homes and even spent time in juvenile detention. She faced the harsh realities of homelessness, often relying on transient relationships for basic shelter. In 2016, she officially emancipated from the state, a decision that liberated her yet left her without a safety net. “I felt like I was finally free,” she shared with the Denver Post, but the struggles of independence quickly became apparent.
Life was tough. Emancipation meant bouncing between friends’ couches and occasionally staying in hotels when funds allowed. It wasn’t until she met her partner, Jake, that her situation began to improve. They now share a home with roommates, filled with laughter and small joys. However, Emily still felt the void of stability that many take for granted.
Enter Dream Makers
Enter Dream Makers, a program under Kids Belong, aimed at fulfilling the aspirations of youth aging out of foster care. Lori Bruegman, National Project Director, explains that the initiative focuses on educational and career-related dreams. “We want these young people to know that there are community members who genuinely care about their futures,” she stated.
Since its inception, Dream Makers has granted over 340 dreams, ranging from necessities like bus passes and laptops to life-changing opportunities such as art classes and even dental care. “The top request we receive is for laptops,” Bruegman noted, emphasizing their importance for those pursuing higher education or GEDs.
One particularly poignant case involved a 21-year-old girl who was going blind and needed extensive dental work not covered by Medicaid. Thanks to a compassionate local dentist who learned of her plight through social media, she received the treatment at no cost.
Dream Makers even organizes surprise car giveaways. One young woman, who spent hours commuting to her part-time job, was overwhelmed with emotion when a local dealership donated a vehicle to her. “I was so grateful,” she exclaimed, realizing how it would change her life.
Emily, too, had her dreams fulfilled when she received a camera. Reminiscing about her childhood, she recalled her mother’s advice: “To see what someone loves, look at the pictures they take.” Now, she aspires to start a photography business to capture special moments for others. “This camera is more than just a tool to me; it’s a reminder that there are kind-hearted people who want to help,” she expressed.
A Lifeline of Encouragement
Dream Makers offers not just material support but also a lifeline of encouragement and hope, showing these young adults that they are not alone in their journey. For those interested in supporting this vital cause, you can visit Dream Makers to fund a dream or collaborate with others to make a difference.
If you’re navigating the journey of starting a family, you might find helpful insights in our other blog post about home insemination kits, which can assist you in your path. For further information, you can also refer to this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, organizations like Dream Makers provide essential support to youth aging out of foster care, granting them dreams that foster hope, community, and the belief that they can succeed.
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