Nicole

Nicole's a 17-year-old currently in the Children's Home Society of Florida's (CHS) Independent Living Program, designed to help teens who have aged out of foster care make the transition to adult life. Although Nicole had to overcome many obstacles in her young life, she has demonstrated the ability to live independently and lead a productive and successful life.

Nicole spent most of her young life in and out of foster care placements. In January 2003, Nicole finally had her prayers of having a permanent family answered -- the court granted her permission to live with her godmother. Prior to this, Nicole lived at Destiny House for two and a half years. In December of that same year, Nicole's dreams were crushed when her godmother passed away, and Nicole was returned to foster care.

Nicole requested to return to Destiny House, where she had developed friendships and positive relationships with the staff. At Destiny House, Nicole worked hard toward her goal of living independently. Nicole obtained employment at McDonald's and graduated from high school in May 2004. In November 2004, Nicole was given the opportunity to live in one of the CHS Independent Living apartments. Nicole is currently living independently and pursuing her educational goals at Daytona Beach Community College. She has matured into a happy, well-adjusted young woman with a bright future.