Special Friends
What is it like to be a Foster Kid?
On any given day in Arizona over 10,000 children are in the foster care system. In the absence of available foster homes, many of these children reside in shelters and group homes. Foster children move an average of 9 times before becoming an adult, some never experiencing a stable home environment. With no one to guide them, and no one to go home to on holidays or during times of need, these children often face grim futures. Nationwide, more than half will not graduate from high school and less than 15% will graduate from college. Between 40-60% of females will become pregnant. Twenty-five percent report being homeless within 24-56 months of leaving foster care.
How does the program benefit children?
Current statistics indicate that for youth who have at least one stable adult in their lives:
45% are less likely to begin using illicit drugs
59% do better academically, and
73% set and attain higher life achievement goals.
How can you get involved?
If you like to have fun with a buddy, check out our Mentoring Program.If you like to teach, try Tutoring.
If you like arts and crafts, go for the Lifebook Program.
If you're good at organization, use your talents as a Community Advisor.
For more information contact specialfriends@aask-az.org or click here to learn how you can get involved.
