Lexi is one of 156 young people participating in our life-changing Keys to Success program. Read how KTS is helping her find her way to a brighter future.
Lexi enrolled in the Keys to Success program in March 2020. According to her career development specialist (CDS), Becky Gutierrez, “Lexi is one of the most hardworking and determined young women that I have ever met!”
Not If, But How Soon?
Upon their first meeting Gutierrez says Lexi declared that she wanted to go to college. It wasn’t a question of if, but how soon could she start? All she needed was a little encouragement and help navigating the college admission process.
Gutierrez helped her apply for college, complete her FAFSA and ETV applications, navigate the financial aid verification process, apply for education support services and even get a laptop!
“Lexi is beginning her first semester, and I am so proud of her,” exclaims Gutierrez. “She has worked so hard to get to this point.”
Not long after she joined KTS, Lexi moved out of her group home and into her own apartment. Gutierrez connected her to vital resources for food and other supports. In need of a job to support herself, she needed KTS employment services to help her.
“Lexi is beginning her first semester, and I am so proud of her…she has worked so hard to get to this point.”
Becky Gutierrez, Career Development Specialist
Finding a Job
Her employment development specialist (EDS) met with Lexi almost immediately. Working together they submitted two applications and Lexi was called to interview at both companies the next day.
She did such a great job in her interviews that she was offered both positions! Together, Lexi and her EDS explored the pro’s and cons of both job offers, taking into account the hours, distance and experience. Her EDS also helped her obtain work clothing so she could start her new job on the right foot.
Lexi has been working at her job for more than two months now, while attending college to study in the behavioral health field. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for this determined young woman!
Support Keys to Success, Receive Tax Credit
Your foster care tax credit donation to the Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation allows our Keys to Success program to offer guidance and support to young men and women as they transition out of foster care.
Please help us by sharing this information with family and friends and making a donation to AFFCF today.