February sped by, filled with such impactful events in our Foster Greatness Community! We dove into helpful workshops, explored crucial self-care topics, and tackled critical social issues. Our hosts and community engaged in diverse perspectives and learned from each other.

We also hosted two incredible panels! In honor of Black History Month, we had 6 LEx advocates who shared their experiences about navigating systemic challenges from the child welfare industry. Additionally, we partnered with Foster Care Alumni of America for a compelling panel featuring individuals with lived experience who discussed the devastating effects of the Federal Funding Freeze on their work, organizations, and lives.

Looking ahead, we're dedicating this next month to exploring the crucial theme of 'Institutionalization in Child Welfare.' We'll be diving deep into the often-overlooked realities of how institutionalization impacts those within the foster care and juvenile justice systems. Expect powerful dialogues, personal stories, and opportunities to engage in open conversations that foster understanding, healing, and a collective vision for change. Plus, keep an ear out for new episodes of our Thriver Story podcast, where we continue to share inspiring journeys of resilience and growth!

More Scholarship Opportunities

Our community has posted a collection of scholarships providing aid for those pursuing higher education. Each one has different requirements and deadlines, so check out the Post a Resource space or click into a post below to see which ones you could qualify for!

•  CA $2,000 Foster Youth Scholarship (Apply by March 5th, 2025)

• Rainbow College Fund Scholarship (Apply by March 5th, 2025)

• $1,500 MANASD Scholarship Program (Apply by March 7th, 2025)

•  2025 ASIST Scholarship (Apply by April 1st, 2025)

• Assistance League Upper Division Scholarships (Apply by May 1, 2025)

CA Foster Youth Tax Credit

We are still offering support for individuals who are looking for tax help! California Foster Youth could qualify for up to $1,154 in cash if they qualify!

Some Eligibility Information Below:

✅ You were 18-25 years old on December 31, 2024.
✅ You were in foster care on or after your 13th birthday.
✅ You earned between $1-$31,950 from any work in 2024.
✅ You lived in California more than half of 2024.

February was one of our busiest months yet! If you missed out on any workshops or panels, you can catch up on them through our YouTube videos! Check them out below.

Did you just LOVE 🩷 our February events? Well we won’t keep you waiting very long for even more events! In March, we will be hosting a LIVE panel discussion with our Thrivers so far from this year and a LIVE open discussion and healing space for those who have experienced time in group homes, residential facilities, congregate care, and other forms of institutional settings. We hope you can join us!

February Thriver Stories Episodes!

Foster Greatness’s mission is to co-create a dynamic platform with people directly impacted by the foster system to set the standard of empowerment and support. We are providing accessible, authentic connections and support by creating a lived-experience led platform. Our vision for every person who is and has been directly impacted by the foster system to feel empowered and supported.