Imagine the night before your 18th birthday, facing the frightening reality that, as a ward of the state, any support you’re receiving will end abruptly when the clock strikes midnight. This is the cruel fate of youth in the care of state-affiliated organizations when they turn 18. These youth have suffered unimaginable abuse and neglect and, without any family or support system, are thrust into the world to make it on their own.

At CHS, we feel this is unacceptable and are committed to enhancing services to former foster youth, ages 18 to 23. Our Transitional Living Program currently helps these youth become responsible, self-sufficient members of society. We nurture them to grow into positive role models for younger siblings and, possibly, children of their own. But these forgotten youth deserve more.

They need volunteer mentors, job training, counseling and, in many cases, safe, clean, stable housing. Our Youth Transition Center will become home to homeless and endangered youth, and the heart of our enhanced services for local 18-23 year olds who aged out of foster care.

If we, as a community, don't make every effort to help these young adults achieve their hopes and dreams, then we are providing a tremendous disservice – not only to these youth, but also to society. Many wonderful young people’s lives have been enriched by the programs CHS offers. With your help, these youth can continue to obtain the education and life skills that they need to face the world we live in.

Think about how many teens you’ve known who truly were ready to tackle life on their own at age 18 and you’ll likely agree this initiative is vital to our community. Your financial support, interest and concern are key to making the Youth Transition Center a reality. Please become involved in this life-changing project —you could be directly responsible for helping our youth choose paths to responsible adulthood.