Foster Youth to Benefit through Scholarship
Educational Programs
Venus, a participant in Children’s Fund programs, is a
great example of how U.S. Bank’s grant to Children’s Fund Scholarship Fund
makes a difference to foster youth in our local communities. Last spring Children’s Fund awarded four
scholarships to foster youth at the Shine-A-Light Breakfast, and Venus was one
of the recipients. Her story shows the
determination and resiliency that we celebrate.
At the age of 13, Venus was introduced to drugs by her
mother. With both parents being drug
addicts, Venus ended up on the streets and became pregnant. By the age of 14, Venus, still a child
herself, had two children. In February
2012, protective services were called, and Venus’ children were placed into
foster care. Knowing that her life would
not get better if she did not make some substantial changes, Venus also entered
foster care and her life began to turn around.
She graduated from high school with a 3.25 GPA. She
currently is attending San Bernardino
Valley College ,
studying to become a registered nurse.
She has both of her children back with her and has been drug free for 18
months. Venus recently sent an email to
Erin Phillips, president & CEO of Children’s Fund.
“I just wanted to give you an update and thank you for
the scholarship. I am attending San Bernardino Valley College . The money helped to pay for books, class and
school supplies. Again, thank you,”
Venus’ email read.
Richard Madsen presents check to Erin Phillips and Vicente Wright |
Venus receives Scholarship |
“Less than 5% of foster or former foster youth graduate from college with four year degrees. It is because of generous financial supporters, like U.S. Bank, that we are able to make a real difference in the lives of these young adults,” says Phillips. Children’s Fund provides scholarship funds at Cal Poly Pomona, Cal State