I’M INCREDIBLY GRATEFUL FOR MY FOSTER MOM
From a young age, I had little understanding of what family was. My environment was influenced heavily by drugs and violence, so a sense of emptiness lingered throughout my childhood. It was unstable and I didn’t have anyone to look up to. Entering the foster care system was a blessing, because I don’t know how my life would have ended without the support of my community.
I had a different view of life as I entered foster care at the age of 9. By 17, I had attended eight schools and had been in 11 group homes, the A.B. & Jessie Polinsky Children’s Center and a foster home. My past has shaped who I am today because of each experience I endured. I learned from my mistakes and gained the strength to chase my goals. Going from a troubled kid to a college student is my biggest accomplishment and I thank those who have helped me throughout my journey.
I’m incredibly grateful for my foster mom MaryJo (whom I call “mom”) because she has always supported me. She encouraged me to fulfill my goals and continue my education. She always told me that “a degree is one thing that people can’t take away from you.” I reflect on this quote often because it motivates me to keep going. Her words always had a powerful impact on my life, and, in many ways, I found my identity from everything she has taught me. She inspires me tremendously and has since the moment she entered my life. My mom is a huge reason I want to give back to my community because she is the hardest worker I know, and still manages to take care of others before herself. She reminds me that education is the path to where I want to be. Following my education has changed my life and allowed me to be part of Promises2Kids. I am thankful for Promises2Kids for seeing my potential and for the wonderful opportunities through its Guardian Scholars program, including being part of its specialty groups, connecting with mentors, receiving job opportunities and more. Through Guardian Scholars, I have built relationships with many individuals, the kind of relationships I lacked growing up. Through LatinX, we discuss issues relevant to my identity and to my culture; Men’s Leadership Network has assisted me with resume building, mock interviews and more; and Advocates for Change has boosted my self-confidence in public speaking and allows me to educate the community about foster care and advocate for myself and other youth currently in foster care. Having the opportunity to interact with people who have a similar background reminds me that we can do anything we set our minds to; that we must be resilient.
Through Promises2Kids, I was connected with two amazing mentors and two coaches. They offer endless support, deliver positive criticism and provide knowledgeable advice. Promises2Kids has given me the support system I need as a student. My participation with Promises2Kids has allowed me to keep growing and not limit myself. I will be transferring to San Diego State University this fall, and, because of the Guardian Scholars program, I feel more prepared to finish my education and obtain my bachelor’s degree in social work.
I recently began working with Lennar, one of the best construction companies in the industry. Promises2Kids provided me with access to a training program that led me to an amazing position as a customer service representative. This opportunity has meant so much to me. It gives me hope and a second chance to build my future.
It is my dream to start my own nonprofit organization and give back to the community that gave to me. I want to help others and be the person for them that I needed when I was younger. Contributing to society in positive and useful ways is what I see myself doing upon graduating. I give all my gratitude to those who have supported and inspired me to want better for my life and future journey.
She inspires me. In many ways, I found my identity from everything she taught me.
Lopez