Foster children often face unique challenges that make it more difficult for them to succeed once they age out of the system. They may suffer from emotional challenges, educational setbacks, and ongoing inconsistency – not to mention the feeling of instability that can linger long after they leave the system. Fortunately, there are strategies you can use to help kids in foster care succeed.
Understanding the Unique Challenges of Foster Kids
Children who have been in foster care tend to be farther behind in their education than their peers and are less likely to graduate. In many cases, educational problems go unidentified as they transition between homes with little idea of what’s next. When they age out of the system, they may not have the support that their peers have as they move forward with their lives. Ultimately only around 3-10% of youth in foster care will receive a bachelor’s degree.
Not only that, foster children are more likely to experience disciplinary action in schools. They’re around twice as likely to receive an out-of-school suspension and around three times more likely to be expelled. These educational disruptions can make it more difficult for students to get the learning they need.
The Importance of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
IEPs are a key part of helping children in foster care overcome the challenges they face navigating the education system. An individualized education plan lays out the specific challenges each child has in obtaining an education and provides solutions and modifications that classroom teachers must adhere to in order to ensure a fair education for that child. They can provide personalized support that makes it easier for students to achieve their goals in the classroom. They also set annual, measurable goals for the child that can help them understand
what they’re working for and take essential steps toward success. Unfortunately, many foster children do not have IEPs. Their educational difficulties may get brushed aside, or they may fall through the cracks as they move between homes. Receiving quality support from educators, volunteers, and foster parents can make a big difference in their ability to succeed in school.
Transition Support Program for Arizona Foster Children
Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation’s Keys to Success program provides vitally-needed support that can assist with education, employment, housing, and financial literacy for young adults aging out of the foster care system. These essential supports provide much-needed help for Arizona youth in foster care. Thanks to this program, 81% of enrolled youth gained basic skills or aptitude within six months of intake, while 88% of youth enrolled in the program obtained a job within a year. This program helps improve outcomes for youth aging out of foster care, helping them avoid being involved in the criminal justice system and overcome financial difficulties.
AFFCF’s Post-Secondary Scholarship Programs
Not only does AFFCF’s Post-Secondary Scholarship Program provide financial assistance to help youth who aged out of foster care get to and stay in college, but it also provides the emotional and moral support to help scholars thrive while in school. This program allows youth in foster care to access the same opportunities as their peers, including the ability to pursue the careers they’re dreaming of.
How to Donate to Foster Children Through a Non-Profit
Many hear about the hard facts of foster care, but aren’t sure how to help. Non-profit organizations like Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation are working to provide a solution. When you donate to AFFCF, you can help a child in foster care get the supplies they need to succeed in school or experience the joy of taking piano lessons. No matter this size, your donation creates a lasting impact.. With just 20% of children in foster care will attend college, those you helped purchase will support a child throughout their educational journey. Twenty-five percent of youth in foster care will be in prison within two years of aging out, the music lessons you help provide allows children to develop a passion, giving them a positive outlet. With your donation, you get to play a long-lasting part of a child’s life.
Help AFFCF Support Arizona’s Foster Children
Since 1984, AFFCF has been operating as a 501©(3) non-profit organization and has funded more than $21,000,000 to nearly 90,000 children in foster care, enriching their lives and showing that they are cared for. Children have a right to thrive in our society, and it’s our responsibility to ensure that they are given every chance to have a decent quality of life. Each contribution to our organization is valuable. Donate today to support youth in foster care and provide them with the same opportunities and support their non-foster care peers experience. Do you have more questions about supporting youth in foster care? Contact us to discuss how you can get involved.
Image Credit: MIA Studio / Shutterstock