Joshua’s Journey with Keys to Success
Youth aging out of foster care do not have a family safety net to rely on for rides, help with car repairs, or financial support for public transit. That is why the Keys to Success (KTS) Vehicle Savings Match came to be.
Through this initiative, participants complete comprehensive financial literacy training, develop a personal budget, and create a savings plan. The savings plan is designed to help them save a minimum of $3,000 over the course of one year. Once they reach that savings goal, AFFCF matches it with an additional $3,000, giving each participant at least $6,000 to put toward the purchase of a safe and reliable vehicle.
One Keys participant, Joshua, succeeded in saving $10,000 for his vehicle through this program.
At the Starting Line
When Joshua first heard about the program, he was riding to school and work with a friend. For many like Joshua, relying on others or public transportation means navigating inconsistent schedules, limited flexibility, and missed opportunities.
Building a Strong Engine for Success
The program isn’t just about handing over car keys, it’s about building stability. Participants receive guidance from Arizona Friends of Foster Children on budgeting, saving, and building credit, so that their first car purchase is also a smart, sustainable investment. By matching participants’ savings, the program accelerates their ability to purchase a reliable vehicle without falling into financial strain.
“The savings match helped me be able to save up to $10,000 to buy my truck,” Joshua states.
Shifting Into Gear
Once Joshua bought his truck, his daily life transformed. That freedom means more than convenience. It’s the ability to say yes to a new job, attend classes without stress, and build a future without transportation holding him back.
“Having my truck has changed my life in so many ways. Having the freedom to go and do whatever I want whenever I want,” he shared.
Maintaining the Momentum
One of the most lasting benefits of the program is that it fosters long-term financial habits. Joshua learned how important it is to maintain a budget and keep saving, even after reaching his initial goal. This kind of ongoing growth is exactly what Keys to Success aims to inspire confidence behind the wheel and in managing life’s financial road ahead.
Joshua expressed, “Ever since then I’ve grown and still save and budget my money to be able to pay for my truck and other things.”
Drive Change
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 Joshua’s journey and honored to watch her grow and succeed.
You can help support success 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 Joshua achieve independence and freedom.