Did you know only 3% of foster youth will receive a Bachelor’s Degree?

Many foster youth lack the financial and emotional support needed to navigate through the education system. With the help of donors, Foster Love - Together We Rise surprises 10 foster youth with a life-changing $90,000 college scholarship. The Family Fellowship program supports youth in foster care with financial, educational, and wrap around support. Learn more at familyfellows.org

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

An aspiring commercial pilot, Kamia was inspired by a helicopter ride she took as part of a high school program in her home state of Colorado. She notes that from the sky, even her rundown street looked perfect, fitting in with the masterpiece of the city. She candidly recalls that if she could see beauty like this every day, she’ll know that she can do anything. After all, the sky is the limit.

Kamia’s ability to stay positive is truly inspiring, and is a huge contributor to her current success. In high school, Kamia balanced having a part time job, taking Advanced Placement courses, commuting over an hour to high school each way, all while struggling to make sure she had something to eat each day. Despite these battles, and even moments of homelessness, Kamia has came out on top. This summer, Kamia is spending her time working before heading back to Arizona to begin her fall semester.

Texas State University, San Marcos

Nickson is studying biology and is on the pre-med track, as he hopes to matriculate into medical school after he finishes his bachelor’s degree. Nickson’s childhood was quite difficult; he navigated the foster care system with his younger brothers after some instances of homelessness. Luckily, his bond with his younger brothers remains very strong, and he often notes that his current success and his drive to go to med school derives from his love for his brothers and his desire to be able to support them emotionally and financially should they need his help. He takes on a lot of responsibility as he wants to be a role model for his younger brothers.

Currently, Nickson is spending his summer working on campus as a Summer Residential Advisor for his university. He plans on enrolling in EMT courses alongside his college courses to give him some exposure to the medical field. He hopes that this could be his part time job while he finishes his undergraduate studies. Judging by his strong academic history, we have no doubt he will ace his semester in addition to the EMT courses. We’re happy to have Nickson in our program, and are humbled by his commitment to his academics and his brothers.

View the scholarship recipients reactions!

Fellowship Reveal 2017 from Foster Love - Together We Rise on Vimeo.