Child Welfare

Youth on the Rise

Child Abuse Prevention Program (CAPP) Families Are Stronger Together (FAST) Family Services for Deaf Children and Adults Foster Care Healthy Families Improving Family Systems LifeSet Mother and Child Program Partners for Change The Phoenix Project Staten Island Community Partnership Strengthening Our Families Strengthening, Teaching, and Educating People through Support (STEP-S) Youth on the Rise

Serving young people ages 14-21, Youth on the Rise provides long-term mentorship and support to young people in foster care at The Foundling. Using the evidence-based Eisenhower Quantum Opportunities Program model, participants work to build positive relationships, gain self-confidence, and meeting their educational, vocational, and life goals.

Participants in Youth on the Rise meet with their mentor twice a week, creating a stable, trusting relationship that lasts throughout high school and beyond. These one-on-one sessions are tailored to the needs of each youth, and can also include tutoring, life skills coaching, or support for college preparation or vocational exploration. Additionally, group recreational activities – chosen collaboratively by program participants – provide opportunities to explore new skills, broaden horizons, and develop positive relationships with peers.

Success Stories

Sitan Found Support and Stability

As a 19-year-old in foster care, Sitan had already faced a lifetime’s worth of challenges when she gave birth to her daughter in April 2020. But the added stress of managing life as a new parent — during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic — made her struggles feel insurmountable. Her foster care team saw that Sitan needed more help, and connected her with our Mental Health Services department.

Through therapy, Sitan learned breathing exercises and coping mechanisms, and now tackles her challenges one day at a time. Additionally, The Foundling helped her make important steps toward independence— she secured daycare for her daughter, rented her own apartment, and has found a full-time job. She now has the stability to provide for her daughter, and is optimistic for the future ahead.

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