NOTE - The youths 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 Michelle.  I am 15 years old and I’m in the 9th grade.  I like to watch tv (Nickelodeon and jail shows) and play with my little [foster] brother.  I like to listen to Young Boy and rap music in my free time.

I need braces to close my gap and have a nicer smile.  Braces are going to make me smile more. 

When I finish school, I want to be a nurse because I want to help people.  My foster mom and my aunt are nurses.  I want to help people in general.  If I see a patient and they are diabetic, I will help them.



If I needed help, I could go to my foster parents; I know this because they help me now.