Committed, Determined, Destined

In Helping Our “At Risk” Youth

The mission of the Stay Off The Streets Fund is to support youth charities which provide structured programs for foster care teenagers transitioning into adulthood.  When asked why he rallies behind this charitable youth fund, Kevin M. Weeks, Author of a collection of urban crime fiction novels titled The Street Life Series®, replied, “I’m committed, determined, and destined to help “at risk” youth stay off the streets.

Charityguide.org lists the following statistics:

 

"Nearly 20,000 foster care teens "age-out" of the foster care system each year. Once they reach 18, their state and foster families are no longer required to give them assistance. They are left to fend for themselves.

 

Unfortunately, many foster care teens don't have the support and life skills necessary to live on their own. Foster care studies have shown that in just four years after leaving foster care, 25 percent of "aged-out" youth have been homeless, 42 percent have become parents themselves, fewer than 20 percent are able to support themselves, and only 46 percent have graduated from high school.

 

Because they lack the support systems most young adults take for granted, aged-out foster care teens are at high risk for substance abuse, domestic violence and poverty."

Growing up on the rough side of West Philadelphia (West Philly), Pennsylvania and Prince George’s County, Maryland in the 1970’s and early 1980’s, Kevin M. Weeks understands the potential plight of 18 years old who “age-out” of the foster care system.  There was a pivotal point in Weeks' life when he ultimately found himself homeless on the streets.  

Shortly thereafter, Weeks enrolled in the U.S. Department of Labor Job Corps, an educational and training program for economically disadvantaged youth between the ages of 16 and 24 years old.  

Supporters of the Stay Off The Streets Fund believe that this essential transitional period from teenager into adulthood is the area which requires additional focus.  We understand the needs and requirements of at-risk youth, to include physical, spiritual and emotional support.

This website is designed to provide a one-stop resource directory of the available resources for teens transitioning into adulthood.  Check back often for news and updates.  Together, we commit to maintain a hands-on approach in identifying and supporting the most effective non-profit charitable programs in this field.  In addition, book proceeds from The Street Life Series® benefit the Stay off the Streets Fund.

More statistical information can be found at:

Erb, Robin. "Children who age out of foster-care system often have tough life ahead." 30 November 2008

Are You Committed, Determined, and Destined

To Help Our Youth?