Cecilia’s Journey with Keys to Success
Cecilia entered the foster care system at age 17, and not long after, she became pregnant with her first child. While her foster parents were supportive, she knew she needed to do more to create a better life for her newborn. That’s when her caseworker introduced her to Keys to Success.
Foot In The Door
To help jumpstart her career, Keys to Success provided Cecilia with guidance and funding for professional clothing and shoes. Through the program’s partnership with Fry’s, she was quickly offered an interview. Thanks to her positive mindset and strong work ethic, she landed the job.
Cecilia reflects, “I’m forever grateful, because that was a foot in the door for many more opportunities.”
Building A Home
Years later, Cecilia is a proud mother of six. While Keys to Success helped her access childcare, she still faced major hurdles securing stable housing. That’s when she was connected to our Resource and Housing Specialist, who helped her complete the paperwork for the Family Unification Program (FUP).
“I was worried about moving to Tempe because I wasn’t familiar with the area,” she shared. “But we began our journey looking at apartments and houses. I found a beautiful home that caught my eye.”
A Strong Foundation
With persistence and support from the Keys to Success team, Cecilia was able to work directly with the property owner and secure her dream home. The team also provided furniture and gift cards to help furnish her space. Her tenacity and strength, combined with thoughtful guidance, made this milestone possible.
“I’m thriving and so extremely grateful for Keys to Success—for being able to have a better life and give my kids something I was never given.”
Build The Pillars
Keys to Success equips youth aging out of foster care with the tools, resources, and support needed to not only build careers but also secure stable futures. Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation is proud to be part of Cecilia’s journey and honored to watch her grow and succeed.
You can help build the pillars of a young person’s life by providing educational support, career development, and housing resources. Plus, your gift qualifies for the Arizona Foster Care Tax Credit. Give today, and help youth like Cecilia reach their full potential.