NOTE - The youth's names have been changed and images withheld for their privacy and protection because they are still in foster care awaiting permanence. Through their stories, though, their identities and personalities are as vivid as their futures are bright.

My name is Derrick and I came into foster care because my parent had a drug problem.  My aunt is a supportive person who I could call on to help me.  Foster care is a lot to deal with but the foster people are helping me to get into a better life.  My life is better for having been in foster care because it’s helping me find where I want to live and keeping me out of trouble.

I’m 13 years old in the 6th grade.  My hobbies are playing basketball and my games.  In my free time I listen to Young Dolph and Lil Boosie.  I hope to be a professional basketball player one day.

Braces will fix my overbite.  I also want treatment because it will make me feel better about myself; my teeth won’t be jacked up anymore.