Do you remember the person who helped you search for your first apartment?
Who dropped you off for your first job interview?
Who was there to listen when you came home after a rough day at work?
One of the most critical needs in our community is for mentors to support foster teens age 17 and older. Upon celebrating their 18th birthday, foster teens “age out” of the system. The State provides each teen with monthly financial support for housing and food, but without a caring adult to guide and encourage them it can be very scary to venture into the adult world.
How does the program benefit teens?
As a Community Advisor, you can help make a difference in the life of a foster teen by serving as a role model, mentor and friend. You can provide them with emotional support and assistance in learning life skills as they transition from foster care to an independent life of their own. Community Advisors assist foster teens in learning positive decision-making, relationship building and becoming successful participants in their community.
Nationwide, foster youth without support are less likely to finish high school and are more likely to be homeless, unemployed, live in poverty, become involved in violence, drug and alcohol abuse, or be incarcerated.
How can you get involved?
Find out how you can make a difference in a foster teen’s future. Contact specialfriends@aask-az.org for program details and to download an application. You may also contact: Community Advisor Program Coordinator, Michael Weddle, at mweddle@aask-az.org or at telephone number 602.930.4451. Visit www.aask-az.org for more information.
