Proposal for
Empowering Foster Youth Aging Out of the System for a Stable Future
Jorge André Figueredo Alves
University of North Dakota
English Composition II
Dr. Perry Benson
October 28th, 2023
November 1st, 2023
[POLK COUNTY BUSINESS OWNER]
BUSINESS ADDRESS
BUSINESS COMPLEMENT
WINTER HAVEN, FL 33881
Dear Polk County Business Owner,
I am writing to submit a proposal titled "Empowering Foster Youth Aging Out of the System for a Stable
Future." This proposal seeks funding to address the critical issue of foster children aging out of the system
without stable placements in Polk County, Florida. The data and recommendations from our recent report
reveal a pressing concern that warrants immediate action. We believe that by providing comprehensive
support to these vulnerable individuals, we can break the cycle of homelessness and adversity they often
face. We look forward to collaborating with Polk County Business Owners to make a meaningful impact
on the lives of foster youth in Polk County.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any follow-on questions. I can be reached at (407) 917-2664 or
j.andre@alvesfoundation.org.
Very Respectfully,
J. André F. Alves
President
Alves Foundation
 Introduction
In Polk County, Florida, the well-being of foster children is of paramount importance,
yet a critical issue demands our attention: foster children aging out of the system without stable
placements, a challenge prevalent across the state. Florida has consistently had one of the higher
numbers of children in foster care among U.S. states, with approximately 24,000 children in
foster care. This number fluctuates over time, but it was notably higher than the national
average. Although children of all ages enter the foster care system in Florida, from infants to
teenagers, we have a particular focus on finding appropriate placements for teenagers who face
unique challenges as they prepare to transition out of the system without a placement and
support.
This proposal, titled "Empowering Foster Youth Aging Out of the System for a Stable
Future," seeks funding to address the issue of foster children aging out of the s ystem without
stable placements in Polk County. The pressing concern warrants immediate action, as these
vulnerable individuals are at high risk of experiencing homelessness. By leveraging the
recommendations from our recent report and understanding the broader context of foster care
in Florida, we can make a substantial difference in Polk County. Our goal is to pave the way
for a brighter future for these young lives while simultaneously reducing the societal and
economic costs associated with homelessness.
Understanding the challenges faced by foster children and the broader Florida context
is essential to crafting effective solutions and ensuring a more stable, promising future for those
in need.
 Background and Mission
Alves Foundation's extraordinary journey began in 2008 when our founder, Jorge André
Figueredo Alves, had a life-altering conversation with a man who had endured the harsh reality
of homelessness for an astounding 70% of his life. This heart-to-heart dialogue ignited a deep
sense of purpose within young André, who, despite being only 15 years old at the time, took
the remarkable step of inviting that man into his home and swiftly securing him suitable shelter.
From that selfless act, the Alves Foundation was created to fight homelessness. Our mission is
clear: to combat homelessness and empower young adults who have aged out of the Foster Care
System without a stable placement to unlock their boundless potential. Our comprehensive
approach encompasses not only providing housing but enveloping these young adults in an
environment filled with love, affection, and the unwavering support of a nurturing family. This
holistic approach ensures they have everything they need as they journey through college,
allowing them to focus on their education without the fear of homelessness or lack of support.
 Problem or Issue
The problem at hand is the significant number of foster children aging out of the system
without stable placements in Polk County, and the subsequent correlation with homelessness.
This issue has far-reaching consequences, as highlighted in the recent "Recommendation
Report" submitted by Alves Foundation.
 Consequences
1. Homelessness Among Foster Youth: Data from the Administration for Children and
Families (2022) reveal that approximately 20% of former foster youth experience
homelessness within the first two years of leaving the foster care system.
2. Long-term Impact: Research conducted by Smith (2018) demonstrates that former foster
youth often experience economic instability, unemployment, limited educational
opportunities, and involvement in the criminal justice system throughout their life. These
challenges have long-lasting consequences on their lives and well-being.
3. Societal and Economic Costs: Homelessness carries significant social and economic costs,
including burdens on social services, healthcare, and the criminal justice system. Addressing
the issue at its root through support and prevention measures is a cost-effective approach
that benefits both individuals and the community.
 Community Needs/Assets
Polk County requires a comprehensive support system to empower foster youth aging
out of the system. The assets in the community include a strong desire to address this issue,
local organizations willing to collaborate, and the potential to create opportunities for
employment and stable futures for these young individuals.
 Envisioning Change: BrightStart Network
To address the pressing issue of foster youth aging out of the system without stable
placements in Polk County, we propose the " BrightStart Network." This initiative encompasses
the following strategies:
1. Extended Support Services: Foster youth aging out of the system will have access to our
network of available bedrooms in the homes of pre-screened married couples who are
committed to their well-being. These loving families include children of the same age,
ensuring a supportive and nurturing family experience.
2. Mentorship and Life Skills Programs: Implementation of mentorship programs and life
skills training to equip foster youth with the necessary skills to live independently, find
employment, and manage their finances effectively.
3. Collaboration: Collaborate with local community and other organizations to provide
resources, including transitional housing, support, and job placement assistance.
4. Raise Awareness: Raise awareness about the challenges faced by former foster youth and
the importance of providing them with support to prevent homelessness, encouraging
community involvement and support.
5. Data Collection and Evaluation: Collect data on the outcomes of foster youth after aging
out of the system and evaluate the effectiveness of support programs to inform policy and
practice improvements.
 Desired Results (Outputs, Outcomes, and Impact)
This initiative aims to achieve the following:

Increased availability of stable housing and support services for foster youth aging out of
the system in Polk County.

A reduction in the prevalence of homelessness among former foster youth in the region.

Improved access to education and employment opportunities for foster youth.

Enhanced public awareness and community involvement in supporting foster youth.

A positive shift in the well-being and prospects of foster youth in Polk County, ultimately
breaking the cycle of homelessness and adversity.
 Influential Factors
The success of this initiative hinges on several influential factors:

The commitment of local organizations and agencies to the welfare and support of foster
youth.

The willingness of community members to actively support foster youth through
involvement and resources.

The effectiveness of public awareness campaigns in raising awareness about the
challenges faced by former foster youth.

The willingness of married couples to provide a loving and supportive family experience
for foster youth.

The active participation of children of the same age in these families, creating a nurturing
and supportive environment for foster youth.
 Assumptions (Program Proposal) or Limitations (Research Proposal)
Several assumptions underpin this initiative:

Local organizations and agencies are committed to the welfare and support of foster youth.

Community members are willing to actively support foster youth through involvement and
resources.

Public awareness campaigns will effectively raise awareness about the challenges faced by
former

youth.
The children in these families are of the same age as the foster youth, creating a nurturing
and

foster
supportive
environment
for
them.
Married couples are willing to provide a loving and supportive family experience for foster
youth.
 Addressing Foster Parent Shortage
Due to a shortage of married couples in the United States willing to become foster
parents, we have been exploring new solutions and partnerships to ensure that every foster youth
receives the care and support they need. Recognizing the critical importance of providing
exceptional support for foster youth, we have established a significant partnership with Johnny
English, a renowned English School in Brazil. Through this collaboration, our focus is on
identifying and nurturing individuals who possess outstanding English language skills as well
as the compassion, dedication, and comprehensive qualities required to make a positive impact
on the lives of young adults in Polk County, Florida. These individuals will have the opportunity
to participate in Johnny English's Immersion Program while supporting the Alves Foundation's
mission. This joint venture offers a unique opportunity for international English students to
apply their language skills in real-life situations. We aim to attract proficient, married students
interested in improving their English skills, who can provide support to foster youth who have
aged out of the system during their college years.
 The Requirements for Becoming Foster Parents:
1. Married Couple: To participate in our program, candidates must be a married couple.
This requirement underscores the significance of stable, loving family structures and the
unique support that married couples can offer.
2. Clean Background: We require candidates to have a clean background, ensuring the
safety and security of the foster youth we serve.
3. Bachelor's Degree: Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree, demonstrating their
commitment to education and personal development.
4. English Proficiency: To be considered for the program, candidates must attain an
outstanding performance record. We require candidates to achieve an impressive 85%
or better in grammar, reading, and conversation classes at the Johnny English School.
This standard ensures that our foster parents are not only fluent in English but also excel
in language proficiency.
 The Role of Foster Parents:
Once selected, the married couple will receive dedicated assistance from our paralegal
team to navigate the necessary documentation and requirements for becoming foster parents
and play a vital role in the BrightStart Network. Once established, they will live in a fully
equipped house with all expenses paid, ensuring a comfortable and supportive environment for
foster youth. Their primary responsibility will be to care for the foster youth as if they were
their own children, satisfying the requirements from the English Immersion Program.
 Comprehensive Roles
1. Healthcare Support: Foster parents will take on the role of healthcare advocates for
the foster youth. This includes scheduling and attending doctor's appointments, dental
check-ups, and any necessary medical assessments. By maintaining thorough and up-to-
date medical records, foster parents ensure that the youth receive the highest standard of
healthcare and wellness.
2. Quality Time: Building meaningful connections with the foster youth is at the heart of
the foster parents' role. They will dedicate time to engage in various activities that foster
growth, trust, and emotional well-being. This includes shared family meals, outings to
cultural and recreational events, and leisure activities that promote bonding and a sense
of belonging.
3. Educational Support: The foster parents are instrumental in providing educational
assistance. They will actively participate in the educational journey of the foster youth,
assisting with homework assignments, test preparations, and fostering a positive
learning environment. They play a critical role in ensuring that the foster youth receive
the educational support they need to excel academically.
4. Emotional Guidance: Foster parents provide a safe and nurturing space for foster youth
to express their thoughts and feelings. They offer guidance and emotional support,
encouraging open communication and fostering a sense of security and trust. This role
is essential in helping the youth develop essential life skills and emotional intelligence.
5. Cultural Exchange: Given the international nature of this program, foster parents
facilitate a cultural exchange between the foster youth and their Brazilian roots. They
introduce foster youth to Brazilian culture, cuisine, traditions, and language, promoting
a rich and diverse cultural experience.
6. Life Skills Training: The foster parents play a pivotal role in teaching valuable life
skills, including financial literacy, cooking, time management, and problem-solving.
They prepare foster youth for the transition to adulthood by equipping them with the
tools needed to navigate the challenges of independent living successfully.
7. Advocacy: Foster parents act as advocates for the foster youth within the community,
ensuring they have access to essential services, support networks, and opportunities for
personal development. They collaborate with local organizations and agencies to
provide the best possible resources for the youth's growth and well-being.
By establishing these comprehensive roles and providing financial support, we aim to
create a pool of candidates who not only possess the necessary skills but also embody the
dedication, values, and resources necessary to provide the best possible support to foster youth
within the BrightStart Network. We believe that these prerequisites will enable us to select
individuals who are not only capable but also deeply committed to making a positive difference
in the lives of the young adults we serve.
 Cost of Supporting Each Foster Youth
To empower foster youth who have aged out of the system, the BrightStart Network
ensures they have the necessary resources for a stable future. The average monthly cost to
support each foster youth is thoughtfully calculated to encompass essential elements, including
housing, food, utilities, and a pocket money allowance.
1. Rent: Each foster youth is provided with safe and comfortable housing within the
BrightStart Network. This housing not only meets their basic living needs but also
nurtures a sense of belonging and stability. The average monthly rent for each foster
youth is $800, ensuring they have a secure place to call home.
2. Food: Adequate nutrition is vital for their overall well-being. A monthly budget of $400
is allocated to ensure that foster youth have access to nutritious meals and can focus on
their education and personal development without food insecurity.
3. Utilities: Basic utilities such as water, electricity, and gas are essential for maintaining
a comfortable living environment. Utilities are provided at an estimated cost of $200 per
month for each foster youth.
4. Pocket Money: To encourage personal responsibility and prepare foster youth for
financial independence, a monthly allowance of $100 is allocated to each individual.
This pocket money can be used for personal expenses or saved for future endeavors.
5. Total Average Monthly Cost per Foster Youth: $800 (Rent) + $400 (Food) + $200
(Utilities) + $100 (Pocket Money) = $1,500
The average cost of $1,500 per month per foster youth represents an investment in their
future and the future of Polk County, ultimately leading to more prosperous, educated, and selfsufficient individuals who can positively contribute to the community. This investment
empowers them to focus on their education and personal growth without the burden of
homelessness or financial instability, giving them a stable platform to build a brighter future.
 What Do We Need?
To ensure the success of the BrightStart Network, we require the active support and
partnership of the Polk County business community. The initiative's success directly correlates
with the number of foster youth we can empower, and this, in turn, relies on a simple yet crucial
equation: the more businesses that join us, the more foster youth we can support.
Our immediate need is to secure commitments in bundles of 10 compassionate and
forward-thinking Polk County Business Owners, each contributing $450 per month to cover the
comprehensive costs associated with supporting three foster youth. These funds will be fully
dedicated to providing housing, food, utilities, and pocket money to ensure the well -being of
these young individuals while they conquer their Bachelor’s degree.
 What do I get by Helping?
Besides leveraging our $10,000 monthly investment in Google Ads by having your logo
on our website partner area, you will also get 25% OFF services with Reimagine Digital
Marketing, a powerhouse in the realm of online marketing, with a distinguished track record
and a visionary leader at the helm. Dr. Kebar Yodhhewawahe, President of Reimagine Digital
Marketing, is widely recognized as a genius in the field, having honed her skills while working
with prominent organizations, including the renowned PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment
of Animals).
Businesses that pledge their support to the BrightStart Network will have the privilege
of harnessing Dr. Kebar and her team’s remarkable marketing acumen for a very discounted
rate. This partnership isn't merely about giving back to the community; it's an opportunity to
benefit your business in a multitude of ways, from enhancing your online visibility to tapping
into the genius of marketing that Dr. Kebar and her team bring to the table.
Those who join the BrightStart Network will not only empower the lives of these young
individuals, but also gain access to Reimagine Digital Marketing's services at 25% OFF!
The package originally valued at $2,000 per month includes a range of services meticulously
designed to boost your business, from optimized SEO to engagement strategy, analytics
monitoring, dedicated support, brand partnerships, and so much more.
Reimagine Digital Marketing's extraordinary services, combined with Dr. Kebar's
marketing brilliance, will undoubtedly give your business a competitive edge in the digital
landscape. It's not just an investment in fostering brighter futures for foster youth but also an
opportunity to elevate your brand, harness the power of cutting-edge marketing, and achieve
greater success in Polk County.
 Let's delve into the details of these valuable services:
1. Optimized SEO: They are experts in optimizing your website to achieve high rankings
on search engines. This ensures that potential customers easily find your business when
searching for relevant products or services.
2. Paid Traffic Management: They drive relevant and interested visitors to your website,
ultimately increasing sales through targeted traffic generation techniques.
3. Social Media Management: They maximize your online visibility across various social
media platforms, fostering a larger client base for your business.
4. Engagement Strategy: Their effective strategies build your online community and
create meaningful engagement, nurturing a loyal and active audience for your brand.
5. Analytics Monitoring: They continuously track and optimize your analytical data to
ensure that your digital marketing campaigns are delivering the desired results.
6. Dedicated Support: You'll receive dedicated support to guarantee your digital
marketing success. Their team will be readily available to address any questions or
concerns you may have.
7. Brand Partnerships: They connect you with valuable partnership opportunities that
can further enhance your business's reach and profitability.
8. Landing Pages: They create high-impact landing pages that are tailored for your
specific marketing campaigns, maximizing conversion rates and lead generation.
9. Visual Identity: Reimagine Digital Marketing will develop a unique visual identity for
your company that resonates with your target audience, helping to distinguish your
brand.
10. Sales Pages: Their conversion-focused sales pages are designed to boost your sales and
conversion rates effectively.
11. Target Audience Identification: They utilize strategic targeting and precise audience
segmentation to ensure that your brand and message reach the ideal audience. This leads
to increased brand awareness and higher revenue growth.
12. Corporate Websites: For a complete online presence, they can create professional
corporate websites designed with your target audience in mind.
13. Competitor Analysis: Their continuous monitoring of industry trends and competitor
strategies provides your business with valuable insights and knowledge to stand out to
customers and gain a competitive edge.
On the other hand, we understand the significance of maintaining a healthy work-life
balance, and that's why we're excited to offer another exclusive opportunity. As a valued
partner, you'll unlock a generous 20% discount on luxurious All-Inclusive vacation packages to
the breathtaking city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil through iTrips Travel Club. iTrips vacation
packages are meticulously crafted to provide an unforgettable experience.
Their services include exceptional features such as 24-hour driving service, hotel pickup
and drop-off, as well as daily dinners and breakfasts prepared by renowned chefs. Your stay
will be nothing short of beachfront paradise, with their property located just 10 steps from the
water's edge, granting you the serenity of waking up to the soothing sound of ocean waves.
You can consider organizing memorable business retreats amid the stunning Brazilian
landscapes, fostering team cohesion and innovative thinking. Alternatively, you can present
extraordinary 20% OFF vouches valued at $500 as gifts to your valued customers, friends,
associates, and family, demonstrating your appreciation for their support.
By becoming a partner of the BrightStart Network, your business not only supports a worthy
cause but also gains access to an array of benefits and opportunities. The possibilities are
boundless, and we invite you to be a part of this transformative journey. Join us in this
meaningful partnership as we empower foster youth and invigorate the Polk County business
community together!
By participating in this initiative, your business will make a three-fold commitment. Not
only will it contribute to its own success and gain access to top-tier digital marketing services,
but it will also enjoy prominent visibility in various marketing channels and big savings to
amazing All-Inclusive tours. Your business will also be featured on Alves Foundation's website,
uniforms, promotional materials, and TV media coverage. Additionally, through our valuable
partnership with TBD Realtor Partner, your business will receive unique exposure in their
special welcome package provided to every new homeowner they close. This welcome package
prominently showcases information about the local businesses supporting our initiative. All this
visibility and support comes while actively contributing to the betterment of the Polk County
community and aiding foster youth in their transition to adulthood.
 Communication Plan
To ensure widespread awareness of the BrightStart Network and its benefits for potential
married couples, foster youth, and the community, we will employ a comprehensive
Communication Plan with Reimagine Digital Marketing’s help. The plan utilizes the $10,000
monthly grant from Google for Google Ads to maximize our outreach efforts. Our goal is to
reach as many individuals and organizations as possible to create awareness, drive engagement,
and encourage support for the program.
Our primary strategy revolves around using the $10,000 monthly grant from Google to run
targeted Google Ads campaigns. These campaigns will focus on various Google Ads formats,
tailored to engage our diverse audience effectively. Here are the key components of our Google
Ads approach:
 Search Ads: We will create Google Search Ads campaigns, optimizing them for
keywords related to foster care, foster parenting, and youth support. These ads will
appear on Google's search results, ensuring that individuals searching for related
information encounter our program.
 Display Ads: We will design and run Google Display Ads to be featured on Google's
partner websites. These visual ads will expand our reach and engage audiences
through informative and compelling visuals.
 Video Ads: We will develop video ads to be showcased on YouTube, Google's
video-sharing platform. These video ads will provide an engaging medium for
conveying the program's benefits to a broader audience.
 Target Public: We will have different segments for ads. Some ads will target
donations, some will target awareness, some will target married couples to host
youth, but all of them will mention the local business that make this project possible.
 Content Development: In addition to the Google Ads, we will create compelling
and informative content, such as blog articles and videos/reel/shorts for Instagram,
Tiktok, Youtube and Facebook. This content will be used both in Google Ads
campaigns and shared on our website to educate and inspire our audience.
 Business Promotion: As mentioned before, all the supporting businesses will be
featured through website and promotional material, which means supporting
businesses will be leveraging $10,000 in monthly Ad Spend for their business by
helping our cause.
 Regular Updates and Monitoring: We will continually monitor the performance
of our Google Ads campaigns, tracking key metrics like click-through rates,
conversion rates, and ad spend. By analyzing data insights, we can optimize our ad
strategy to ensure the most effective use of the grant.
In summary, our Communication Plan centers on optimizing our $10,000 monthly grant for
Google Ads campaigns, expertly managed by the Reimagine Digital Marketing team. These
campaigns will be finely tuned to engage three primary groups: potential married couples
interested in foster parenting, foster youth seeking support, and the wider community. Our
ultimate goal is to make a significant impact in supporting foster youth and addressing
homelessness in Polk County, all while expressing our gratitude to the local business owners
who enable this vital endeavor.
 Evaluation
The success of the "BrightStart Network" is of paramount importance to us. We are
committed to ensuring that our initiative creates a tangible impact on the lives of foster youth
and the community of Polk County. To achieve this, we have a comprehensive evaluation plan
in place.

Impact Measurement
Our evaluation process will focus on assessing the impact of the "BrightStart Network" on
foster youth, with a specific emphasis on their stability, education, and well-being. The impact
measurement will include:
1. Stable Housing: We will track the number of foster youth who have secured stable
housing through the network. This data will help us determine the effectiveness of
our housing support.
2. Education and Employment: We will monitor the educational progress and
employment opportunities of foster youth. This includes tracking high school
graduation rates, college enrollment, vocational training participation, and job
placements.
3. Reduction in Homelessness: We will measure the reduction in homelessness among
former foster youth in Polk County as a result of our support services.
4. Public Awareness: To gauge the success of our awareness campaigns, we will
monitor website traffic, social media engagement, and the number of businesses and
individuals joining the initiative.

Evaluation Methodology
The evaluation will employ a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods,
including surveys, interviews, data analysis, and third-party assessments. We will collaborate
with local researchers and professionals experienced in foster youth support and homelessness
prevention to ensure the accuracy and integrity of our evaluations.

Who Will Do the Evaluation?
To maintain objectivity and transparency, we will enlist the services of an independent
evaluation firm with expertise in social impact assessment. The evaluation firm will work
closely with our team to design and implement the evaluation process.

Utilizing the Results
The results of the evaluation will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the "BrightStart
Network." They will be used to:
1. Improve Program Effectiveness: We will use the findings to refine and enhance
our support services for foster youth, ensuring they are aligned with the most
effective strategies and practices.
2. Inform Policy and Advocacy: The results will be instrumental in advocating for
policy changes at the local and state levels, based on evidence of the impact of
support programs.
3. Strengthen Community Engagement: The evaluation outcomes will guide our
efforts to engage the community more effectively, ensuring that our initiatives
receive the support they need to thrive.
4. Enhance Transparency: We are committed to maintaining transparency with our
stakeholders, including business owners who support our cause. The results of the
evaluation will be shared openly, showcasing the difference their support has made
in the lives of foster youth and the Polk County community.
Our commitment to evaluation is a testament to our dedication to creating meaningful and
lasting change. We believe that by rigorously assessing the impact of our programs, we can
continue to grow and evolve, ultimately delivering a brighter future for foster youth and the
entire Polk County community.
About the Author
Jorge André Figueredo Alves is the visionary founder of Alves Foundation, a nonprofit
organization dedicated to supporting vulnerable populations, including young adults leaving the
Foster Care System and those experiencing homelessness in Polk County, Florida. His journey
is characterized by unwavering commitment and resourcefulness in making a meaningful
impact on the lives of those in need.
Before pursuing a bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering at the University of
North Dakota, André established Alves Foundation as an adolescent, driven by a passion for
social justice and community welfare. His international acclaim as a key contributor during the
2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, where he managed 3 out of 31 buildings within the
Olympic Village, underscores his remarkable leadership skills and ability to handle imme nse
responsibility.
As an entrepreneur, André successfully founded Rocket Garage Door Services, a
thriving small business specializing in garage door installations and repairs in Polk County,
Florida. His capacity to adapt and thrive in diverse roles, from combating homelessness through
Alves Foundation to managing a successful small business, reflects his determination to
overcome challenges and create a brighter future for those in need.
André's unique blend of entrepreneurship, leadership, and humanitarianism positions
him as a dedicated advocate for foster youth and individuals experiencing homelessness. His
journey reflects his unwavering commitment to addressing this critical issue in Polk County.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the issue of foster children aging out of the system without stable
placements in Polk County is a critical concern that demands our immediate attention. The
urgency of this matter cannot be overstated. As a community, we are confronted with a moral
imperative to take action.
Our proposed solution, the "BrightStart Network," stands as a beacon of hope for these
vulnerable individuals. It represents not only a comprehensive support system but also a
commitment to breaking the cycle of homelessness and adversity that has plagued far too many
young lives. By embracing this initiative, we have the opportunity to be architects of a brighter
future, not just for the foster youth we aim to serve but for our entire community.
We extend a heartfelt invitation to Polk County's Business Owners to join us in this
transformative mission. Your support is not merely an investment; it's a powerful statement of
solidarity and a testament to the collective strength of our community. Together, we can be the
catalyst for change, fostering improved well-being, reducing homelessness, and creating new
employment opportunities. By doing so, we will contribute to the emergence of a more
prosperous and harmonious Polk County.
The time to act is now! Let's seize this opportunity and work together to transform the
lives of those who need us most, and, in doing so, to build a brighter, more secure, and more
prosperous future for Polk County.
References
Administration for Children and Families. (2022). Foster Children Aging Out of the
System: A Correlation with Homelessness. [Insert Reference Link]
Courtney, M. E., Piliavin, I., Grogan-Kaylor, A., & Nesmith, A. (2001). Foster Youth
Transitions to Adulthood: A Longitudinal View of Youth Leaving Care. Child Welfare, 80(6),
685-717.
Smith, J. (2018). The Long-Term Consequences of Foster Youth Aging Out of the System
Without Adequate Support. Journal of Youth Studies, 21(8), 1089-1106.