Our Approach
Fostering Acadia provides older youth in foster care a supportive space where they are encouraged to dream big, set goals and take action. Realizing their dreams and potential can be difficult for those aging out of foster care without the help of strong relationships and support systems.
FA 8
Fostering Acadia has created a standard of completion.
These eight key stability indicators are FA’s goal for every youth in our program. When these eight standards are achieved, youth are much more likely to reach an appropriate level of independence, with the ability to “stand on their own two feet” by the time they transition out of Fostering Acadia at 21.
Diploma
A high school diploma or GED is always the first goal.
Employment
Stable employment for a sustainable long-term income.
Transportation
Assistance is provided to acquire reliable transportation.
Savings
A goal of $1,000 in savings by the
time youth leave FA.
Credit
We work towards a 650 or higher credit score.
Housing
Identifying and securing stable housing prior to transitioning
out of FA.
Records
Ensure all vital records are in each youth’s possession.
Permanency
A positive, permanent connection with a supportive adult.
PROGRAMS
IL FOR A DAY
Choosing an independent living arrangement can be overwhelming. Fostering Acadia offers pre-placement visits where youth can tour an apartment, meet other youth in the program, engage in community activities and even complete a mock grocery shopping experience. Come visit us and experience for yourself what Fostering Acadia is all about.
Permanency Project
One of the most important indicators of a young person's success is the influence of a caring, trusted adult. Fostering Acadia connects volunteers in the community with interested youth so that even after they transition out of FA, they have a strong support system in place.
Parent & Child Program
Being a teenage parent is hard, but Fostering Acadia helps youth through the difficult moments while also celebrating the milestones. Our staff provide young parents with the resources and support they need for both them and their child to succeed.
Car Incentive Program
Reliable transportation can be a frustrating barrier to achieving goals. When youth save $1,000 of their own money, Fostering Acadia will put $3,000 toward the purchase of a personal vehicle that they can count on. We also assist in obtaining a driver’s license for those who do not have one.
Scholarship & Housing Subsidy Program
For youth aging out of foster care, finding affordable housing can feel impossible. Fostering Acadia has created a scholarship and subsidized housing program for foster youth between 21-23 years of age so they can transition into stable housing beyond their time here.
Military Leadership
The armed services offer amazing opportunities with structure and housing for youth aging out of foster care or our program. Fostering Acadia created a military leadership program in collaboration with S3E Fitness to strategically prepare youth with a personalized training regimen. This program is geared for youth interested in joining the military or strengthening their leadership skills.
Entrepreneur Leadership
Pursuing a dream of starting a business can feel like an uphill battle. We encourage youths’ entrepreneurial spirit by partnering with them to develop a business plan, apply for a business license, and participate in entrepreneurial competitions.
Youth Savings Program
Opening and funding a savings account is an essential part of a solid transition plan. Each month, Fostering Acadia contributes to a youth's savings account in addition to encouraging them to save their own money when possible. This account grows throughout their entire placement with Fostering Acadia and is fully available to them when they discharge.
Educational Center
High school completion and secondary education provide important opportunities for long term success. Our Educational Center is staffed with a full time Educational Services Coordinator to support youth with an individualized strategy to accomplish their educational goals. We also collaborate with Great Expectations and Penn Foster.
Employment Support
Finding and maintaining a job is a cornerstone of living independently. Fostering Acadia equips youth with individualized training, a job readiness certification course, and access to transportation. We support youth in applying, interviewing, and maintaining employment during their time here and beyond.
Employer Partnership
It can be difficult to get your foot in the door at many places of employment. Our community partners offer networking opportunities for youth in our program where they can develop professional skills and receive ongoing feedback and support as they work towards stable employment.
Youth Volunteer Program
A great way to build confidence and experience is to give back to the community. Fostering Acadia promotes volunteer opportunities that allow youth to get experience in a field of interest, build their resume, meet people in the community and make a difference.
Apply now
If Fostering Acadia sounds like the right place for you to build a future you’re excited about, then apply for our program today.
![Did you know FA has a YouTube channel? 👀 Follow along for upcoming events, shout-outs, and all the youth highlights.
[And learn how youth can get FREE passes to Kings Dominion this summer!] 🎉
➡️ Link in bio to subscribe or search “Fostering](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64d165d9b0a77e7823b74a17/1701444843282-ATCY5LROFPFD7G09D32F/image-asset.jpeg)
