For Former Foster Youth, ‘Sky is the Limit’ with Support and Resources from Youth Transitioning to Adulthood Program

May is National Foster Care Month.

While there’s no denying that being in the foster care system and separated from your birth family would be difficult at any age, younger children have a system built to ensure they are getting support and resources from foster parents. But what happens when that child turns 18?

That’s where Wellpoint Care Network’s Youth Transitioning to Adulthood (YTA) program comes in. In partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families, YTA is available for those who have exited (or will be exiting) foster care in Milwaukee County, and provides the guidance, support and resources needed to build a healthy, independent adulthood.

“There’s a stigma attached to young people, especially former foster youth who have aged out of the system,” said Christine Woods, Independent Living Supervisor at Wellpoint Care Network. “A program like this where there are people they can trust and who they can turn to is so important. They just need someone who can listen to them and make them feel like their voices are being heard.”

23-year-old Steven Manley agrees. He’s been part of YTA for almost six years now.

“It was something that I didn’t know I needed, but it made me a better young man,” he said. “My YTA coordinators helped me get my first apartment, pay for schooling, gave me advice on grocery shopping, taught me how to budget and so much more. They’ve been with me through a lot of hardships. I know I always have someone I can call who will help me with any real-life situation. I can be my authentic self without any judgement.”

Spending his teen years in a couple different foster homes, Manley also appreciates being able to connect with other young adults who have gone through similar experiences. ­

“For me, a lot of my friends or peers don’t know that part of my life,” added Manley. “When you go through those situations, it can feel isolating. So when members of YTA all get together, it’s kind of like an automatic connection. There’s more compassion and grace for what you are going through.”

Statistically, youth who age out of foster care are at higher risk of homelessness, struggling with employment and education or having increased involvement with the criminal justice system. With YTA there to help support him, Manley is on a mission to prove that former foster youth can do anything they put their mind to.

“Six months ago, I invested in my first real estate property,” he said. “The beginning stages were a little rough, but I kept reminding myself that this is what I’ve always wanted to do. After two days on the market, there was a buyer. My business partners and I are now in the works of a six-figure deal. Our goal is to make more people homeowners in the city of Milwaukee, the same community we grew up in.”

­“I’ve been working with Steven since he was 18,” added Woods. “He’s got a great head on his shoulders. I’ve just been there to remind him to believe in himself and to keep pushing, even when there are obstacles. He’s my first youth that’s gone into real estate, so I’m very proud of him and I know he’s going to continue to succeed. The sky is the limit for Steven.”

As a way to show his appreciation for how far he’s come, Manley is also the President of the regional Youth Advisory Council. The group consists of current and former youth in foster care. They work with governmental systems to inspire change through education, advocacy, training and awareness.

“Most former foster youth are forgotten about, or they have issues that come out later on in life,” said Manley. “There are things that can change that would make individuals more comfortable while in foster care. So this is my way to give back to the community. To be a voice, to be an advocate, to push for things that I wish I was able to receive while I was in the system.”

His advice for anyone currently in foster care is simple.

“You are not alone,” he said. “There are resources and help available to you throughout your journey. Just stay strong. If I think back 10 years while I was in different group homes, I remember feeling like it was the end of the world. But now I can see how far I’ve come. Just take it day by day doing the best that you can, and your time will come too.”

At Wellpoint Care Network, we are committed to helping children and families overcome trauma and ultimately thrive.

YOU can be part of this important mission. This Foster Care Month, consider becoming a foster parent or donating to support crucial programs like YTA. With your support, more young adults like Steven will continue to overcome the statistics and make a positive impact in our community.