When we first met Cameron in February 2019, he was already a dedicated student. He was attending both high school and the East Valley Institute of Technology’s (EVIT) 3D animation program. Having been in foster care since he was 13 years old, he was nervous and uncertain about his next steps after graduating high school without any support in place. How could he ever get into college? Where would he live after turning 18? How would he support himself?
Looking Forward
Then in February 2019 Cameron joined the Keys to Success (KTS) program. With the help of his career development specialist (CDS), he began exploring what’s possible for his future. He outlined goals for himself and his future, while his CDS connected him to the resources he needed to succeed, such as Foster Arizona. With a lot of hard work on his part and with a little help from KTS, he began creating the answers to those daunting questions about his future.
Soon after becoming involved in KTS, he successfully landed a job at Fry’s Food Stores. He graduated high school and earned his 3D Art and Animation certificate from EVIT. Fueled by a strong motivation and desire, Cameron’s hard work began paying off. He was accepted into the animation program at Phoenix College, and he earned a post-secondary scholarship from the Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation to help pay for his education.
Following Passion
Cameron’s accomplishments are impressive by any standard, but even more so considering the challenges he has faced being in the foster care system. Today, he is thriving! He is performing well in his second semester at Phoenix College, on schedule to complete his freshman year in May. He is motivated and working hard to remain financially independent.
Cameron moved into his first apartment and is successfully managing work, school and independent living. In his spare time, he’s currently working on a Star Wars fan comic that he plans to release later this year! This amazing young man is a talented graphic artist who is following his passion toward a successful future! You can even check out his work on Instagram at @whistler_art.
Giving Hope
You can help youth aging out of foster care find a path to success by making a Foster Care Tax Credit Donation. You can receive a dollar-for-dollar credit on your Arizona state taxes, up to $500 for individuals and up to $1,000 for couples. And you can donate today and still apply it to the 2019 tax year up until April 15!