When Shawn, a participant in the Keys to Success (KTS) program, first reached out for help applying for his first apartment, he wasn’t entirely sure what the process entailed. He knew he wanted to take that next big step, but he also knew he couldn’t do it alone. At that point, his Career Development Specialist (CDS) referred him to the Resource and Housing Specialist (RSH) for assistance.
Making an Impression
From the very beginning, Shawn impressed everyone he met. He was responsible, on top of every detail, and laser-focused on his goal. A longtime employee at a local grocery store, he’d worked his way up to become a supervisor for pick-up orders. Still commuting nearly 20 miles each day from his group home, Shawn knew it was time to find a place of his own, ideally closer to work.
Although he wasn’t sure what to look for in an apartment at first, one thing was clear: he wanted his own space, at least a one-bedroom, and preferably a unit with a washer and dryer. With the help of his RSH, who helped narrow down the options, Shawn found a complex just five minutes from his job that seemed perfect.
Making Positive Choices
The RHS offered to meet him there for a tour. Together, they viewed a few different models. One apartment was available the following week, but it had been recently remodeled and fell outside his price range. Shawn had the maturity to consider his long-term goals over short-term gratification. Because he would have qualified, he could have taken the unit. Instead, he asked, “What’s the point of working just to pay rent?” He wanted to be able to save.
So, he waited for a unit in his price range to become available. He applied for the apartment in January 2025, was approved in February, and patiently held out until April to move in. During that time, Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation (AFFCF) helped reduce his move-in costs by assisting with rent, and even helped him furnish the space, something Shawn never expected but was deeply grateful for.
Showing Growth
Shawn’s journey speaks volumes about his growth. He’s consistently shown maturity, discipline, and gratitude. Even establishing his utilities was handled with calm and confidence. When he called the utility company to set things up, they were impressed; he had no credit issues and didn’t even need to pay a deposit.
Mindful of every penny, Shawn is frugal, eating mostly ramen and $5 In-N-Out meals. He understands what it’s like to go without, and he’s determined to build something stable and lasting.
Prioritizing Saving Money
Outside of work, Shawn is a homebody and a gamer. He rarely goes out and prefers to save rather than spend. He’s always responsive, never misses a call, and is clear about his goals. Someday, Shawn hopes to pursue a career in law enforcement.
For now, his focus is on creating a solid foundation. He has a car, a clear plan, and regular conversations with his CDS about his next steps. His current group home has been a stable place, but Shawn is ready for the independence of having his own space.
Support Youth Aging Out of Care
With a little support from AFFCF’s Keys to Success program, Shawn received the guidance and assistance he needed to achieve his goal of having a place of his own. That support is made possible by the caring people in our community.
When you donate to AFFCF, you’re helping young people aging out of care, or who have aged out of care, access the resources and services they need to build a path to independence. Plus, your donation may qualify for a dollar-for-dollar credit on your Arizona state taxes.
Shawn is one of many young people on the road to self-sufficiency. You can be the bridge that helps them get there. Give today!