I would like to hire a Grant Writer

We want to design a program to improve the transition of foster youth in state custody to independent living. We would like to start an after school program for at risk students , specifically for youth in long term foster care, living in group homes who have experienced frequent transfers and disruptions in the learning process. Research has shown that children in foster care are among the the most at risk for poor life outcomes in the United States. The National Conference of State Legislatures reported that foster children higher rates of grade retention, lower scores on standardized tests, and higher absenteeism, tardiness, truancy, and drop out rates when compared to the general populations. My after school program goal is to improve our youth educational stability and learning opportunities. We want to provide them with a educational foundation by helping them achieve academic success, social stability and self sufficiency. My program will be put in place to give foster children the opportunity to address the common problems of educational instability by providing services to address their unique educational and emotional needs. Our project will include adult advocacy, mentoring, tutoring, counseling, testing and evaluation, life skills instruction, career exploration, leadership skill and transportation assistance. We want to build a community where our youth build friendships, and are allowed to maintain long-term friendships and peer groups no matter if they are relocated to another residence. We want to assist our foster youth with obtaining their high school diploma, prepare for additional training or post secondary education, avoid substance abuse, and make healthy life decisions.