Fostering Futures – FY21 Annual Report
The Foundation 2 Fostering Futures program, part of the Iowa Aftercare Network, supports young people aging out of foster care, focusing on housing, education and training, employment, and other elements of stability.
This year, the program underwent a name change, from Independent Living Services to Fostering Futures. The name change better encompasses their services and goal – to help young adults achieve independence and stability on their own. Foundation 2 support workers serve as a comprehensive guide for the young people (many of whom lack traditional networks), including with barriers to navigating housing, education, employment, budgeting, and other life skills.
Fostering Futures expanded to include a higher education and training support program, Fostering Higher Education. This pilot program is one of two nationwide and is a partnership with Washington State University Vancouver. Through the program, young people are matched with mentors to learn about post-secondary education and training options, and career opportunities. Through working with their mentor and Foundation 2 staff, the goal is to broaden their horizons and encourage young people to engage in post-secondary opportunities they may have otherwise missed.
Stephanie, now age 21, shares her story with Foundation 2’s aftercare services. With the guidance of the Foundation 2 team, Stephanie is establishing independence and stability, attending college, and working full time.
Stephanie's Story
Stephanie, now age 21, entered foster care at age 15 and aged out a few years later. With limited supports, she struggled to establish independence and stability as a young adult. When she came to Foundation 2’s Iowa Aftercare Program Services Network program – a transitional support program for young adults who have aged out of the foster care system – she found a support system and guidance for navigating independent living. With the guidance of the Foundation 2 team, Stephanie is establishing independence and stability, attending college, and working full time. Hear more of her story here.
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