AH 2023 Annual Report SPREADS - Flipbook - Page 13
Meet GG, a resilient and determined, 20-year-old youth in foster care, who is turning her
dreams into reality. Currently in her third year at the University of Albany, GG is an English
major with a solid 3.0 GPA. Her goal is to become an English teacher.
Throughout her four-year journey in foster care, GG has received invaluable support from
her Abbott House Case Planner, Fair Future Coach and support team, ensuring that her
academic and career aspirations are not just dreams but achievable goals.
Beyond her academic pursuits, GG is also a passionate advocate for children in foster
care. As an ambassador, she has delivered numerous speeches, including a poignant
address in Washington DC highlighting the critical issue of safe housing for children
aging out of foster care in New York City.
Despite her demanding academic schedule, GG works as a babysitter and occasionally
as a hairstylist – examples of her determination to be self-sufficient. Through her own
resourcefulness and the stipend that she receives from the College-Choice Program, GG
maintains her own apartment, further fostering her independence and self-reliance.
GG
In 2023, GG’s curiosity about other cultures and academic excellence caught the attention of
the faculty at the University of Albany who awarded her with a full scholarship grant to study abroad.
GG traveled to Korea, where she studied and gained intimate knowledge of Korean culture – an opportunity that further
broadened her horizons and enriched her educational experience.
GG is well on her way to achieving a bright and promising future, defying the odds, and showcasing the remarkable potential
of youth in foster care - and we could not be prouder!
Two years ago, when John stepped through the doors of Abbott House, he was carrying
the weight of severe trauma, turmoil, complicated grief, and loss. While enrolled at a new
high school he began working part-time at a large, nation-wide company, which led to
a promotion and increased responsibility. John’s journey was about more than making
ends meet; it was about laying the groundwork for a future - and for independence.
With the support of his care team, John graduated high school with a plan to keep
growing professionally. Soon, he will reach another milestone by moving into
an apartment close to public transit and continuing to grow at the company
where he first began working during high school.
John’s achievements are a testament to the power of perseverance and his
story is only just beginning!
John
Being a teenager is all about discovering who you are – a time to learn and grow – and
have fun! Imagine going through this while also facing a series of challenges that test your
strength at every turn. This is the story of Stephanie, a remarkable young woman who is
defying the odds and thriving in care at Abbott House.
Over the past year, Stephanie has been navigating multiple and complex medical
diagnoses, and bravely facing invasive medical treatments which require ongoing
appointments with multiple specialists, monthly check-ins and health monitoring. She
has also had multiple hospitalizations due to the severity of her needs.
None of this has slowed her down academically. She’s a true fighter, committed to
keeping up with her studies and maintaining impressive grades. Stephanie’s hard work
was even rewarded as she was invited to apply for the National Honor Society at her High
School. The path to a promising future is not always easy, but with the right resources and
holistic care plans, teens like Stephanie have a fighting chance to overcome unimaginable
obstacles. Way to go, Stephanie!
Stephanie
2023 Annual Report
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