Big Donation to Family Care Network

The Family Care Network, Inc., has received a big boost for a program that helps young people find themselves and find work.
The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County donated $90,000 to FCNI from its Youth Empowerment Fund, monies that will be used to support its “Youth Employability Support Program,” the agency announced.
The money will help provide hands-on instruction and coaching designed to improve 250 youth, ages 16-18, with career and employment potential. “The program aims to build character, determination, motivation and strong values through positive adult role models and community-linked interactions not otherwise available to them.”
FCNI’s Transitional Age Youth Programs are for foster care kids who are victims of child abuse/neglect, physical abuse, abandonment or severe family dysfunction, the agency explained.
These kids have significant emotional, mental health and/or behavioral problems that are major obstacles to achieving career and everyday life success. They have no significant positive family connections or supports, and are in need of guidance and positive adult role models.
Along with that they have low self-esteem and self-confidence, and benefit from ongoing encouragement, incremental successes and rewards.
These kids are often behind in school and in danger of dropping out, let alone going on to college. They are unaware of help that is out there, like through FCNI, lack aspirations and while they have a lot of potential, they lack direction and confidence.
“The Family Care Network was honored to receive these funds from the Community Foundation,” said Jim Roberts, CEO and founder of FCNI. “Implementing the YES Program would be a wonderful opportunity to positively impact our transitional age youth through enhanced skills, networking and community linkages.”
In 15 years, the Community Foundation has awarded more than $24 million in grants to assist non-profit agencies. For more information on the Foundation, call 543-2323 or see: www.cfsloco.org.
In the photo left to right are: FCNI board member, Kim Oldfield, Community Foundation CEO, Heidi McPherson and FCNI’s CEO, Roberts. Submitted photo